Groutiella apiculata
Groutiella apiculata (Hook.) H.A.Crum & Steere
Groutiella apiculata (Hook.) H.A. Crum & Steere is a species in the moss family Orthotrichaceae, native to regions in northern South America, including Antioquia, Boyacá, and others. First described in 1950, the species has been the subject of taxonomic discussion, particularly in relation to G. mucronifolia. The distinction between the two species has been debated based on morphological features such as leaf apex shape, marginal border height, and branch length.
Description
Groutiella apiculata is part of a complex taxonomic group within the genus Groutiella. Early studies by Grout (1944, 1946) identified the apex and marginal border height as key distinguishing features from G. mucronifolia. However, variability in these traits has led to uncertainty. Florschütz-de (1964) noted the apex shape could vary, and Crosby (1970) suggested that populations previously attributed to both species could not be reliably separated. Vitt (1979) considered them synonymous based on gametophyte characters, while Allen (2002) noted differences in sporophytic features. After examining type and non-type specimens, recent assessments conclude that distinguishing the two species based on either gametophyte or sporophyte characters is difficult due to overlapping traits.
Distribution
BR · Antioquia, Boyacá, Cauca, Chocó, Cundinamarca, Magdalena, Nariño, Risaralda, Valle · NO
Synonyms
Leiotheca apiculataLeiotheca mucronifoliaGroutiella mucronifoliaGroutiella wagnerianaSchlotheimia mucronifoliaMacromitrium homaloblastumMacromitrium macrostomumMacromitrium mucronifoliumMacromitrium wagnerianumCraspedophyllum apiculatumCraspedophyllum mucronifoliumCraspedophyllum wagnerianumMacromitrium apiculatumMacromitrium brevipesMacromitrium elegansMicromitrium apiculatumMicromitrium mucronifoliumMicromitrium wagnerianumOrthotrichum apiculatumOrthotrichum mucronifolium
