A new species of Colura (Lejeuneaceae, Marchantiophyta) from the Andes of Ecuador

Abstract

Introduction: The Ecuadorian Andes, within the Tropical Andes biodiversity hotspot, support exceptional bryophyte diversity due to altitudinal gradients and cloud-forest microclimates, although many species remain undescribed. During examination of liverwort collections from upper montane cloud forest of the Ecuadorian Andes, a new species of Colura with a five-keeled urceolate perianth was found. Methods: The specimens were examined and measured using stereo and compound microscopes. Spore features were observed via scanning electron microscopy. Diagnostic features were rendered as line illustrations, using the Sketchbook application on a digital device. Key results and conclusions: Colura amphorica is described and illustrated here as a new species from the southeastern Ecuadorian Andes. The new species is characterised by autoicous sexuality, lateral leaves with sac-like structures terminated by hollow cylindrical extensions, the valve of the lobule composed of two basal median cells, an urceolate perianth with five horn-like keels, and an androecial branch bearing 1 (or 2) pair of male bracts, with each male bract containing three antheridia.