<![CDATA[Background: Ferns (Pteridophyta) are components of ecosystems and can become important weeds in plantations, including salak orchards. Research on Pteridophyta in salak orchards has not yet been reported; therefore, an inventory of fern species is necessary. Methodology: The method used was an exploration survey conducted throughout the salak orchards, covering an area of 8,519 m². Each fern species encountered was collected, described, and documented, and the results were subsequently presented using a qualitative descriptive approach. Fern identification was carried out using relevant books, scientific journals, and online resources. Findings: A total of 18 fern species (Pteridophyta) belonging to 9 families were recorded. Regarding habitat preference, 67% of the fern species were terrestrial, 22% were epiphytic, and 11% were found in both terrestrial and epiphytic habitats. The environmental factors at the study site included soil pH ranging from 6.2–6.8, soil moisture of 70–100%, air temperature of 25–29°C, air humidity of 84–96%, and light intensity of approximately 141–152 lux. Contributions: Environmental conditions were associated with the diversity of fern species recorded in the salak orchards of Cimande Village, Caringin District, Bogor Regency, West Java. Although often considered weeds, ferns may contribute to maintaining soil moisture, and this study provides baseline information on their diversity and habitat associations in salak orchard agroecosystems]]>
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