Ignatov, M.S., V.E. Fedosov, A.V. Fedorova & E.A. Ignatova. On the systematic position of Discelium (Bryophyta)

Arctoa (2016) 25: 278–284

doi: 10.15298/arctoa.25.21

Results of molecular phylogenetic analysis support the position of the genus Discelium in the group of diplolepideous opposite mosses, Funariidae; however, its affinity is stronger with Encalyptales than with Funariales, where it is currently placed. A number of neglected morphological characters also indicate that Discelium is related to Funariales no closer than to Encalyptales, and thus new order Disceliales is proposed. Within the Encalyptaceae a case of strong sporophyte reduction is revealed. Bryobartramia appeared to be nested in Encalypta sect. Rhabdotheca, thus this genus is synonymized with Encalypta.