The Lejeunea tumida species group (Lejeuneaceae: Jungermanniopsida) in New Zealand

Abstract

Plants attributed to Lejeunea tumida comprise a heterogeneous aggregate of four morphologically distinct species, each circumscribed by subtle yet significant differences in perianth morphology, oil bodies, lobule morphology and lobe ornamentation. Size and shape also have utility in delimiting species, despite morphological overlap. We employ geometric morphometric methods to quantify and communicate diagnostic differences in lobule shape. Two new species, Lejeunea oracola M.A.M.Renner and Lejeunea rhigophila M.A.M.Renner are described, and a previously described species of Taxilejeunea reinstated as a new combination, Lejeunea colensoana (Steph.) M.A.M.Renner. Descriptions and illustrations of these three species and Lejeunea tumida Mitt. are presented. All four species occur in New Zealand. Although L. tumida has been reported for New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania, the identities of Australian plants comprising these records are largely unresolved, and require further investigation.