Pedinophyllum interruptum

Description

This uncommon liverwort often occurs as scattered, prostrate shoots 1-3 mm wide, but can form substantial patches where conditions are favourable. Its shoots may be various shades of green and resemble a small to medium-sized Plagiochila. However, the leaves mainly tilt slightly forwards of the stem rather than backwards as in Plagiochila. Leaves may be rounded or oblong, approximately 1.5 mm wide and long, and may have a tooth at each corner. The centre of the front surface of the stem has a narrow, leaf-free zone, so the leaves are relatively well-separated. This species is monoicous; its specific epithet refers to the way in which male inflorescences appear to form a constriction round the stem that interrupts the regular pattern of alternate leaves. Plants are usually fertile, but rarely form sporophytes.