SafePlants

Andreaea: A Comprehensive Look at Rockmosses

Andreaea, often referred to as rockmoss, encompasses a fascinating group of mosses with unique characteristics and ecological roles. This article delves into various aspects of Andreaea, providing information about its taxonomy, distribution, morphology, and more.

Considerations for Pets

• Small parts: Some Andreaea species are described as small mosses.
• Habitat: This moss is commonly found on rocks.

Considerations for Children

• Small parts: Some Andreaea species are described as small mosses.
• Habitat: This moss is commonly found on rocks.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Andreaea Hedw.
• Common Names: While many species exist, this genus is referred to generally as andreaea moss, granite moss, or rock-moss. Some species have unique common names, such as icy rockmoss (Andreaea frigida), Black Rock-moss (Andreaea rupestris), Broad-leaved lantern moss and Schofield's black moss (Andreaea schofieldiana), Blytt's andreaea moss (Andreaea blyttii), and Obovate Andreaea moss (Andreaea obovata).
• Family: Andreaeaceae
• Class: Andreaeidae
• Order: Andreaeales
• Synonyms: Andreaea petrophila Ehrh. is mentioned as a prior name for Andreaea rupestris.

Distribution and Habitat

• Andreaea species are found globally, including in mountainous regions of Europe (e.g., Austria, Czech Republic, France), Scandinavia (Sweden, Norway), and the Antarctic.
• They commonly grow on rocks, often abundantly, in environments ranging from alpine boulders to north-facing rock faces.

Morphological Characteristics

• Andreaea mosses typically form dense tufts.
• Plants can range in color from blackish-green to black, or reddish-brown to dark brown.
• Stems can grow up to 3 cm, but are usually shorter.
• A key characteristic of Andreaea is the absence of a seta (stalk) on their capsules, which protrude just above the surrounding plant.
• Spore size and morphology are important in species identification.
• The capsule of Andreaea species is unique, with a distinctive capsule wall.

Ecological Role

• Species of Andreaea, particularly the "granite-mosses," can be abundant on rocks.

Quirky Facts

• The capsules of Andreaea species are unique among mosses, lacking a seta and exhibiting a distinctive pattern of sporophyte maturation.

Further Information

• Tropicos database
• Flora of North America
• Integrated Taxonomic Information System