AbstractThe traditional generic classification in the Bryoideae (Bryaceae) is based primarily on details of the sporophyte, particularly peristome reduction and capsule inclination. Recent research, however, has suggested that closely related species inAnomobryumcan have very distinct capsules, varying from complete peristomes and inclined capsules to reduced peristomes and erect capsules. The suggestion is made here that sporophyte features, especially those related to peristome features, may obscure phylogenetic relationships. A revised classification is proposed, based on analyses of 100 species ofBryum, Anomobryum, andBrachymeniumand sixteen sporophytic and gametophytic characters. The revised classification groups species with similar gametophores but is supported by at least some sporophytic characters. Analysis of variance and principal components analysis indicate that both the traditional and revised classification provide effective summaries of the variation within the 100 species examined. The new classification consists of three informal groups of species which can be recognized at generic rank. One comprisesBryumspecies, including those with reduced peristomes and inclined capsules. A second comprises all species ofAnomobryum, as well as species ofBryumandBrachymeniumwith similar gametophores. The third group consists of the rosulate species ofBryumandBrachymenium.Phylogenetically, the second group may be more closely related toPohliathan to the species in the first and third groups. The third group appears to be most closely related toRhodobryumandPlagiomnium.Suggested names are provided for groups one and three, while the nameBryumis retained for group two. No nomenclatural changes are made, however, until more research is done.