Disjunct or continuous? On the distributional pattern of Cephaloziella hampeana (Nees) Schiffn. ex loeske (Cephaloziellaceae, Marchantiophyta) in South America

Abstract

Cephaloziella hampeana (Nees) Schiffn. ex Loeske is recorded for the first time in South America. This record considerably extends the distributional range of C. hampeana and raises the question on the role that high mountain environments play in dispersing species along the continent. The morphological differences of C. hampeana with its purportedly allied species are discussed. Additionally, its disjunct distributional pattern is briefly compared with those of other liverworts. Photomicrographs and a distributional map are provided.