A comparison of Dichodontium flavescens (Dicks.) Lindb. and D. pellucidum (Hedw.) Lindb. (Bryopsida)

Abstract

Fifty-three herbarium samples of the genus Dichodontium, originating from 15 countries in Europe and North America, were examined to critically assess new distinguishing characters between D. flavescens and D. pellucidum. The examination, including SEM, revealed some new characteristics in the gametophyte, notably leaf shape, leaf length: width ratio, and width of the nerve, permitting accurate determinations even on sterile material. D. flavescens is recognized here as a distinct species.