Guide to Liverworts of Oregon: Pellia epiphylla (L.) Corda
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Pellia 1b involucre short > Pellia 2b bisexual > Pellia epiphylla
Synonym: None.
Special Status: None.
Recognition: The presence of both antheridia and archegonia on the same thallus distinguishes this species. The involucre is developed only on the abaxial side so it is like a flap rather than a ring or tube like the other species. Slime papillae subtending the apical meristem cells are two-celled as in P. neesiana, which will distinguish it from P. alpicola.
Distribution: Terrestrial, on peaty soil. Widespread, often montane but most Oregon records are from sites along the immediate coast.
Comments: This species and Pellia neesiana are the two species of the genus with thickened walls in the thallus. Literature references usually describe the thickenings as being in the center of the thallus but some material from Washington has cell walls thickened in the wings. These thick walled cells are not always easily detected and so are a good clue but not a reliable diagnostic character.
Pellia epiphylla - Darrington District, Washington. Lesher 1956b.
Pellia epiphylla - Darrington District, Washington. Lesher 1956b.
Pellia epiphylla - Darrington District, Washington. Lesher 1956b.
Pellia epiphylla - Darrington District, Washington. Lesher 1956b.