Tortula brevis sp. nov.andT. stanfordensisSteere: morphology, cytology and geographical distribution

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Tortula brevis sp. nov. is described. It differs from T. stanfordensis in having leaves with larger cells, a more acute apex and a larger apiculus; also in the occasional presence of gemmae on the leaves, and in having an autoecious (rarely synoecious) inflorescence. T. brevis has a gymnostomous capsule borne on a seta only 2 mm long. The calyptra is cucullate and covers two-thirds of the capsule. Male inflorescences and young sporophytes (2-3 mm long) of T. stanfordensis have been found at Hoarwithy, Herefordshire [UK], leg. J. A. Paton, 8 April 1968. All other populations of T. stanfordensis appear to be female only. T. brevis has a chromosome number of n=52 or, more rarely, n=26. That of T. stanfordensis is n=13. T. brevis is known from river banks and trampled ground in the Thames and Tweed river basins. T. stanfordensis is frequent on the banks of the rivers Severn and Wye and occurs at scattered localities elsewhere in England and Wales, and also in Scotland, Ireland and France. It is widespread in California [USA] and is known from four localities in Victoria, Australia.