Ophiopteris antipodum E. A. Smith 1877

A specimen of this striking species was taken in 40 fathoms, off the coast of Timaru, South Island, by Miss P. M. Ralph in February, 1951. Its distinctive feature is the possession of supplementary scale-like spines over the arm-spines. It is endemic to New Zealand, one other species being known from California. This is the most southern record, it being known previously only from Cook Strait and from Rangitoto Island. Despite its relatively wide distribution in New Zealand waters, it is nevertheless rarely seen.