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andreaea moss
Scientific Name: Andreaea
Family: Andreaeaceae
Category: Moss
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Andreaea: A Unique Genus of Moss
Andreaea is a fascinating genus of mosses, distinct in several ways from other moss groups. Often referred to as "lantern mosses" or "granite-mosses," these plants belong to the class Andreaeidae and the family Andreaeaceae, setting them apart within the broader world of bryophytes.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Andreaea Hedw.
- Family: Andreaeaceae
- Class: Andreaeidae
- Synonyms: The text mentions several species and varieties within the Andreaea genus, highlighting the complexity of its taxonomy. Examples include Andreaea rupestris Hedw., Andreaea rupestris Hedw. var. rupestris, and Andreaea megistospora var. epapillosa (B. Murr.) Crum & Anderson. Obsolete name: Andreaea petrophila Ehrh. (modern name: Andreaea rupestris).
Distribution and Habitat
Andreaea mosses are often found in mountainous regions, with specific mentions of their presence in:
- Europe (e.g., Austria, the Czech Republic, France)
- The Scottish Highlands
- Scandinavia (e.g., Sweden, Norway)
- Antarctica
- China
They commonly grow on rocks, particularly granite, and in alpine or arctic environments. For example, Andreaea regularis has been studied growing on north-facing rock faces.
Morphological Characteristics
- Plants can be blackish green to black, or reddish brown to dark brown.
- They form dense tufts, typically up to 2 cm high, though some species can reach 3 cm.
- A defining characteristic is the lack of a seta (stalk), with the capsules protruding only slightly above the surrounding leaves.
- Spore size and morphology are important in Andreaea classification.
- The capsule of Andreaea has a unique pattern of sporophyte maturation.
Ecological Role
Andreaea species, particularly the "granite-mosses," can be abundant on rock surfaces. They are monitored by organizations like the ABMI (Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute) although the ABMI does not monitor all species. They are found in abundance on the surface of rocks.
Interactions with Other Organisms
Pigmentation in Andreaea regularis is influenced by UV-B radiation, indicating a response to environmental factors.
Further Information
For additional resources, consider exploring the following:
- Tropicos
- Integrated Taxonomic Information System
- Flora of North America
- ABMI (Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute)