Cryptomitrium is a genus of complex thalloid liverworts in the family Aytoniaceae. The genus name means “hidden turban” in reference to the inconspicuous sheath around the immature sporangium.[1]

Cryptomitrium
Cryptomitrium tenerum sporangiophore
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Marchantiophyta
Class: Marchantiopsida
Order: Marchantiales
Family: Aytoniaceae
Genus: Cryptomitrium
Austin ex Underw.

Description

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Sporophyte bearing receptacles are unlobed on  elongate, somewhat grooved stalks, which appear pale throughout or brownish purple near the base. The receptacle is a convex-expanded disc, thinning towards the margins.[1]

Mature sporangia are brown, nearly spherical with very short seta, three to seven per receptacle, each opening by a lid-like operculum. The sporangia mature in early spring.[1]

Species

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References

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  1. ^ a b c Schofield, W.B. (2002). Field Guide to Liverwort Genera of Pacific North America. San Francisco: Global Forest Society. pp. 92–93.