Taxonomic insights and new geographic records of Metzgeria epiphylla A. Evans (Metzgeriales, Metzgeriaceae): A re-assessment based on discoveries in Shennongjia National Park, China

During a bryophyte survey in Shennongjia National Park, <i>Metzgeriaepiphylla</i> A. Evans was newly recorded in China, expanding the known distribution of this species beyond its previously reported locations in the South Atlantic and South Pacific regions. This represents the first report of <i>M.epiphylla</i> in East Asia, specifically in evergreen broadleaf forest habitats. The discovery contributes new insights into the species' morphology, including variability in thallus shape and reproductive structures, distinguishing it from closely-related taxa. A key to species of <i>Metzgeria</i> from Asia is also given.