The American Fern Society (AFS) has more than 900 members around the globe, making it "one of the largest international fern clubs in the world. It was established in 1893 with the objective of fostering interest in ferns and fern allies." For beginners, the AFS website posts A Brief Introduction to Ferns which touches on fronds, rhizomes, sporangia, life cycle, and history. The site also offers brief online instructions for growing different types of ferns including common ferns, Grape ferns, Psilotum, Schizaea Pusilla, and Xerophytic ferns. In addition, AFS hosts an online Fern Forum that is open to beginners, amateurs, and professionals. Site visitors will also find links to other online fern resources, as well as information about AFS membership, publications, and Spore Exchange service.