Family Dryopteridaceae is a family of ferns that includes approximately 1700 species and over 50 genera. This family is widely distributed across the globe and can be found in a variety of habitats, such as temperate and tropical forests, mountainous regions, and wetlands. Some common synonyms for Family Dryopteridaceae include Dryopteridaceae, Shield Fern Family, and Polypodiaceae. These synonyms are often used interchangeably to refer to this family of ferns. The members of this family are prized by gardeners and horticulturists for their beautiful foliage and adaptability to a range of growing conditions. They are also important to ecosystems as they play a significant role in regulating water and nutrient cycles.