On the phylogenetic position of the genus Claopodium: a revival of a 19th century idea

Abstract

<p><br /> Molecular phylogenetic analysis of nuclear ITS and plastid rps4–trnS found species of the genus <i>Claopodium</i> in the clade formed by species of Brachytheciaceae and Meteoriaceae, including Trachypodaceae. <i>Claopodium </i>is resolved as sister to Brachytheciaceae, thus we suggest its placement in this family, despite it will be the only taxon of the family with pluripapillose laminal cells. The taxonomic value of the papillose leaf cells in pleurocarpous mosses is discussed.<br /></p>