Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Semester of Degree Completion

1981

Thesis Director

Charles B. Arzeni

Abstract

This study represents a taxonomic survey of the hepaticae of east-central Illinois. The counties included in this study were Coles and Clark, located in the east-central portion of the state, near the Indiana stateline. Of the areas included in this study, two are in Clark county, Rocky Branch and Rocky Hollow, and one in Coles county, Rock's Park.

The influence of the Wisconsin glacier, and its terminal moraine located in southern Coles county, greatly influenced the topography and ultimately the specific habitats for the hepaticae. The majority of the liverworts encountered in these counties are found in the numerous sandstone outcrops along rivers and streams. These outcrops were exposed due to the cutting action of the glacial melt water.

A key was composed from the combination of the keys present in current literature. Illustrations and descriptions are provided for each of the genera and species located in these two counties. In some instances, specific locations within these counties are included for any of the species considered rare or endangered.

A total of forty-seven liverworts have been collected in these counties. Four are considered to be rare or endangered. They are Ptilidium pulcherrimum (G.Web.) Hampe, Blepharostoma trichophyllum (L.) Dum., Trichocolea tomentella (Ehrh.) Dum., and Marchantia polymorpha L. The survival of these, and liverworts in general, as well as other rare plants, is dependent upon the preservation of these areas.

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