Selaginella brachyclada reinstated from synonymy under S. rhodostachya (Lycopodiopsida, Selaginellaceae), with updated descriptions of both taxa

Selaginella brachyclada is reinstated as a separate species, distinct from S. rhodostachya, based on a comparative morphological review of herbarium specimens, including type specimens. We provide updated descriptions and illustrations for both taxa and clarify their diagnostic features using macromorphological and micromorphological data from scanning electron microscopy (leaf and spore surface). We discuss differences between these taxa and other morphologically similar species to help ensure accurate identification and stabilize the use of names within the Selaginella valdepilosa group.

Distributional and ecological information on S. brachyclada and S. rhodostachya, gathered from the examined specimens, is compiled and analyzed to support preliminary conservation assessments.