Guide to Liverworts of Oregon: Riccardia latifrons (Lindb.) Lindb.
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Riccardia 1a oil bodies absent from all cells > Riccardia latifrons
Synonyms: None
Special Status: None
Recognition: Fresh material is immediately recognized under the microscope by the lack of oil bodies in all cells. This is the only species in the genus that completely lacks oil bodies. It is closest to R. palmata, from which it may be differentiated by the monoicous condition. When dry and sterile, they are not reliably separated.
Distribution: Grows almost exclusively on decaying wood, it is particularly prominent on the downhill end of cut logs. Found in moist forests from the coast through all mountainous areas throughout the state.
Comments: Much more abundant than R. palmata and may grow in less mesic habitats.
Habit on rotting log. Cape Perpetua, Linclon Co., Oregon.
Thallus with both male and female branches. Cape Perpetua, Linclon Co., Oregon. DHW XXXX.
Thallus lobe, McDowell Creek, Linn County, Oregon. DHW m271X.
Thallus cells, McDowell Creek, Linn County, Oregon. DHW m271X.
Male branch. White Rock Fen, Linn County, Oregon. DHW m1686.