Vinealobryum islandicum R.H.Zander (Pottiaceae, Bryophyta), a new species from Iceland

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction During examination of assorted mosses sent for identification, a specimen of Vinealobryum (Pottiaceae) from Iceland was found to be unlike other species of the genus. Methods Standard microscopical analysis was carried out, accompanied by consultation of published literature and re-examination of permanent microscope slides made during prior studies. Key results and conclusions The species Vinealobryum islandicum, sp. nov., is here described as new because it proved distinct from congeners by the crowding of its plants in a dense turf, and its fragile stems, leaves isomorphic along the elongate stems, fragile at midleaf or above, and 4- to 8-celled gemmae that are spherical or with bulging cells on short stalks on adaxial costa at the leaf apex.