How to Identify Orthotrichaceae

Key Identification Features

• The entire leaf surface is often covered in brown asexual propagules called gemmae, a feature that helps distinguish this species from similar relatives like Orthotrichum papillosum.
• A distinct feature of male plants is the conspicuous bulb-like branches that hold their reproductive gametophores.
• The sporangia is distinctive, marked by 8 ribs that may extend either halfway or the full length of the structure.

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