Ctenidium multiseriatum S.He & M.K.Thomas (Bryophyta: Myuriaceae), a new moss species from Maui, Hawai’i

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction The moss genus Ctenidium (Schimp.) Mitt. comprises approximately 23 species worldwide, of which two are known to exist in Hawai’i. Based on recent molecular studies, the genus has been reclassified into the family Myuriaceae, departing from its traditional classification in the Hypnaceae. Plants newly collected from Maui exhibit most characteristics of Ctenidium but differ from all known species within the genus by a combination of several critical characters detailed in this study. Consequently, we propose the classification of this moss as a new species of Ctenidium. Methods The material was studied in Hoyer's solution, using standard microscopical and photomicrographical techniques. Key results and conclusions Ctenidium multiseriatum S.He & M.K.Thomas is described as a new species from Hawai’i and distinguished from all known Ctenidium species by a combination of distinctive characters including multiseriate paraphyses, clearly prorate laminal cells at both the upper and the lower ends, shorter median and upper laminal cells, ecostae perichaetial leaves with subentire margins, irregularly subpinnately branched stems, and foliose pseudoparaphyllia.