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candle snuffer moss

Scientific Name: Encalypta brevicolla var. brevicolla

Family: Encalyptaceae

Category: Moss

Growth: Nonvascular

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Encalypta: The Candle Snuffer Moss

The Encalypta genus, commonly known as Candle Snuffer Moss, belongs to the Encalyptaceae family. These mosses are characterized by a calyptra (hoodlike covering) that resembles a candle snuffer or extinguisher.

Considerations for Pets

  • As mosses, Encalypta lack vascular systems and do not produce sap.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Encalypta Hedw.
  • Group: Moss
  • Family: Encalyptaceae
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species

Common Species and Varieties

  • Encalypta vulgaris: Common Candle Snuffer Moss. Previously recognized varieties include E. vulgaris var. mutica.
  • Encalypta ciliata: Fringed Candle Snuffer Moss. A synonym is Encalypta ciliata Hedw. var. microstoma Schimp.
  • Encalypta alpina: Alpine Candle Snuffer Moss.
  • Encalypta brevicolla
  • Encalypta longicolla
  • Encalypta flowersiana: Flowers' Candle Snuffer Moss.
  • Encalypta rhaptocarpa: Yellow Awn Candle Snuffer Moss.
  • Encalypta affinis: Macoun's Candle Snuffer Moss. A variety is Encalypta affinis var macounii.
  • Encalypta microstoma
  • Encalypta hedbergii
  • Encalypta intermedia: Intermediate Candle Snuffer Moss.
  • Encalypta labradorica
  • Encalypta cucullata
  • Encalypta selwynii
  • Encalypta procera

Morphological Characteristics

  • The "candle snuffer" appearance comes from the calyptra, a hood-like covering over the capsule. In E. ciliata, this calyptra is fringed.
  • These are nonvascular plants.

Distribution and Habitat

  • A plant database exists for Siberian candle snuffer moss.

Quirky Facts

  • The name "Candle Snuffer Moss" comes from the calyptra's resemblance to a candle snuffer, an old tool used to extinguish candles.

External Resources

  • The Plant List
  • ToL (Tree of Life Web Project)
  • BHL (Biodiversity Heritage Library)
  • British Database of World Flora and Fauna
  • Flora of North America
  • USDA Plants Database