The phytogeography and ecology of Macrocoma (Orthotrichaceae, Musci) in Africa

Abstract

Of the 11 species presently recognized in the genus Macrocoma (Orthotrichaceae, Musci), four occur in Africa. These species are xeromorphic and occur in savannas, woodlands, and forests, roughly corresponding to the Afromontane Phytogeographic Region. Macrocoma tenue (Hook. Grev.) Vitt subsp.  tenue is widespread in southern Africa, north to Ethiopia and also occurs in Australasia. Three species are endemic, with M. pulchella (Hornsch.) Vitt found only in the Cape area; M. abyssinica (C. Mull.) Vitt occurring in eastern Africa, and M. lycopodioides (Schwaegr.) Vitt distributed sporadically in eastern and southern South Africa.