An overview of Syntrichia ruralis complex (Pottiaceae: Musci) in the Mediterranean region and neighbouring areas

The Syntrichia ruralis complex is revised in the Mediterranean region and neighbouring areas. A critical study of six quantitative and eight qualitative gametophytic characters from a total of 232 samples has been carried out. On the basis of this survey five taxa have been recognized. An identification key is provided. S. ruralis var. subpapillosissima is elevated to the rank of species as S. subpapillosissima. A lectotype for S. calcicola is proposed. S. ruralis var. submamillosa and S. ruralis var. glacialis are regarded as synonymous with S. subpapillosissima and S. ruralis, respectively. Also, Tortula densa is included in the variability shown by S. calcicola. Syntrichia ruralis var. substereidosa (Tortula ruralis var. substereidosa) is excluded from the Syntrichia ruralis complex and is included in the synonymy of S. virescens. (C) 2002 The Linnean Society of London.