Anthocerotaceae is the primary family of within the order Anthocerotales. These unique bryophytes are characterized by their simple, thalloid gametophytes and distinctive horn-like sporophytes that grow continuously from a basal meristem. Key Botanical Characteristics
: The gametophyte is a flat, green, lobed body that lacks internal air chambers. anthocerotaceae
The plants in this family possess several features that distinguish them from other bryophytes like mosses and liverworts: Anthocerotaceae is the primary family of within the
The family currently centers on the genus Anthoceros , which is the largest and most widely distributed. lens-shaped chloroplast per cell
: Most species have only one large, lens-shaped chloroplast per cell, which contains a pyrenoid —a structure typically found in algae but rare in land plants.