Yakushimabryum longissimum(Pylaisiadelphaceae) gen. & sp. nov., from the Yakushima Island, Japan

Scientists have discovered a new genus and species of moss, Yakushimabryum longissimum, on Yakushima Island, Japan. This unique bryophyte is characterized by its glossy, yellowish-green appearance, absence of leaf costa, and distinctive filamentous gemmae composed of smooth, long-rectangular cells. Phylogenetic analysis using rbcL data reveals that it does not closely relate to similar genera like Clastobryopsis or Gammiella, but instead shares an affinity with Isocladiella and Isopterygium. The study combines morphological observations with molecular techniques, providing a key to Japanese Pylaisiadelphaceae genera. This discovery contributes to the understanding of bryophyte diversity in UNESCO-listed Yakushima, known for its rich biodiversity.

Akiyama, H., Chang, Y., Yamaguchi, T., & Tan, B. C. (2011). Yakushimabryum longissimum(Pylaisiadelphaceae) gen. & sp. nov., from the Yakushima Island, Japan. Journal of Bryology, 33(1), 42–49. https://doi.org/10.1179/1743282010y.0000000002