The phylogenetic position of Vandiemenia ratkowskiana (Metzgeriales, Marchantiophyta)

A molecular phylogenetic analysis was carried out on a range of simple thalloid liverworts, particularly focusing on the genus Vandiemenia . Two major clades were indicated: the Metzgeriales clade comprising Metzgeriaceae, Vandiemeniaceae, and Aneuraceae and a clade comprising the other orders of sampled thalloid liverworts: Pelliales, Fossombroniales, and Pallaviciniales. In the Metzgerialean clade, the Aneuraceae appeared at the most basal position, and Vandiemenia was sister to Metzgeria with high supporting values. The results support the taxonomic conclusion that Vandiemenia should be placed in the Metzgeriaceae.