Abstract
The manner of branch development and shape of vegetative reproductive organs were examined for 19families, 101 genera, and 227 species in the suborders Leucodontineae and Neck- erineae (Musci). Two types were recognized in the manner of branch development. They are distin- guished from each other by the nature of dormant condition: One with swollen primordia (type A) and the other with buds (type S). Filamentous pseudoparaphyllia always accompanied type A primordia, whilefoliose pseudoparaphyllia were always with type S. The presence ofscale-like leaves overarching buds was a good marker for recognizing the type S with ease. Each family and genus, with few exceptions, proved to be stable in the manner ofbranch development and shape of vegetative reproductive organs. Therefore, the two-character combination can be used as a new clue for the taxonomy of higher categories. Five genera, which are not closely related, have paraphyllia. The presence ofparaphyllia is correlated with the type S of branch development, and has no taxonomic significance. The familial affinities of two genera are considered; Henicodium is a monotypic genus and classified in the Pterobryaceae, and Penzigiella in the Neckeraceae. Several families of the Leucodontineae have long
Published Version
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