On the distribution and variability of Bucegia romanica Radian

Abstract

Bucegia romanica Radian (Marchantiaceae) is reported for the first time from Svalbard signifi-cantly extending the previously known range. The level of ITS1-2 nrDNA, trnL-F and trnG-intron cpDNA nucleotide sequence variability from European and Svalbard populations is quite low and any significant morphological differences between specimens are not revealed. Characters differentiating Bucegia romanica from similar the at first glance Preissia quadrata (Scop.) Nees and Asterella lindenbergiana (Corda ex Nees) Arnell as well as ecology of the species in Svalbard and worldwide are discussed. The global distribution of the species is reviewed and mapped.