Field measurements performed on Staghorn fern colonies (Platycerium bifurcatum)

<p>This study explores the relationship observed between 'guests' – foreign inhabitants of social colonies – and the density and fecundity of eusocial-like staghorn ferns (<em>Platycerium bifurcatum</em>, Polypodiaceae). Our observations suggest that guests in staghorn colonies have a range of commensal and negative relationships, paralleling those seen in eusocial animal species.</p>