Consequently, it has been considered unwise to introduce too many systematic innovations, particularly as many systematic and phylogenetic questions remain to be answered At the same time, every effort has been made to ensusre comprehensive and up-to-date coverage of the species occurring in Europe. Despite certain inherent difficulties, the opportunity has been taken by the editor to modify sections of the text, correct errors and iron out ambiguities and inconsistencies. As in the last German edition, some rare and newly added species are not keyed out independently but are treated briefly by means of a clearly indicated annotation in the body of the key. The book is unique in its coverage of all bryophyes and ferns to found within this large and varied geographical area, its scope extending from Iceland in the west to the Ural Mountains in the east and including the northern Macaronesian islands.The fern section has been further extended to include Georgia and the Caucasus, Turkey and Cyprus and the Cape Verde Islands. The distribution reflects current national boundaries.
Although the bryophyte and fern sections of the book vary slightly in their presentation, reflecting their separate authorship, every effort has been made to standardize them where practicable. The literature references, combining those to bryophytes and ferns, have also been brought right up to date, and the Glossary contains many additional entries. Publications dealing with rare and threatened species are highlighted. In a single volume, this work provides users with the means of making at least a preliminary identification of any bryophyte or fern which they might encounter in Europe or Macaronesia.
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