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distichium moss

Scientific Name: Distichium capillaceum var. curvatum

Family: Ditrichaceae

Category: Moss

Growth: Nonvascular

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Distichium capillaceum and Distichium inclinatum: Fine and Incline Distichium Mosses

This page provides information about two species of moss, Distichium capillaceum and Distichium inclinatum, both belonging to the genus Distichium. These mosses are also commonly referred to as distichium moss.

Considerations for Pets

  • These mosses may grow on rocks and soil, so pets who like to explore outdoor environments may encounter them.

Considerations for Children

  • These mosses may grow on rocks and soil, so children who like to explore outdoor environments may encounter them.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Genus: Distichium Bruch & Schimp.
  • Species:
    • Distichium capillaceum (Hedw.) Bruch & Schimp.
    • Distichium inclinatum (Hedw.) Bruch & Schimp.
  • Family: Ditrichaceae
  • Synonym for Distichium capillaceum: Cynontodium capillaceum Hedw., Isopterygium muellerianum
  • Variety: Distichium capillaceum var. capillaceum (Hedw.) Bruch & Schimp.

Common Names

  • Distichium capillaceum: Fine Distichium, Erect-fruited Iris Moss, Distichium Moss
  • Distichium inclinatum: Incline Distichium Moss

Distribution and Habitat

  • Distichium is found in high elevation rock crevices and sometimes on wet soil in alpine sites.
  • Distichium capillaceum grows on damp ledges or in crevices of at least mildly base-rich rocks.
  • Distichium inclinatum has a distributional map available.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Distichium can be identified by the combination of subulate leaves.
  • Distichium capillaceum is a distinctive moss with a sheathing basal portion and a spreading limb that is almost all costa.

Ecological Role

  • Six Moss sporophyte capsules may provide an easily accessible forage.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Mentioned alongside Iceland Moss (Cetraria islandica) and Reindeer Lichens (Cladonia spp.)

Further Information

  • Integrated Taxonomic Information System (ITIS): Provides taxonomic status for Distichium capillaceum.
  • Encyclopedia of Life: Has information on Distichium capillaceum.
  • Tropicos: Related to Distichium inclinatum.
  • Toolik-Arctic Geobotanical Atlas: Mentions names used for Distichium capillaceum.
  • Flora Islands: Provides a URL with images of Distichium capillaceum.
  • Database records and maps are available for viewing and analyzing Distichium records.