Abstract: Through herbarium studies and field observations, the taxonomical characteristics of the fern genus Cyrtogonellum Ching (Dryopteridaceae) were compared and studied. The results showed that four morphological characteristics, veins free or anastomosing, apex pinnatifid or with an apical pinna, pairs of lateral pinnae, and spore ornamentation, are the most stable and useful characteristics in this genus. Other useful characteristics include both shape and size of the lateral pinnae. The size of plants is one of the most unreliable features and it should not be used as the sole basis for defining species.

Key words: Cyrtogonellum Ching, taxonomy, morphological characteristics