SafePlants

Anthoceros

Anthoceros is a genus of hornworts, a type of non-vascular plant. The name Anthoceros translates to "flower horn," referring to the horn-shaped sporophytes characteristic of this genus.

Considerations for Pets

• Some species of Anthoceros possess horn-like sporophytes.
• Anthoceros grows on moist soil, shady places, or crevices of rocks, making them a common find outdoors.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Kingdom: Plantae
• Phylum: Bryophyta (or Anthocerotophyta)
• Class: Anthocerotopsida
• Order: Anthocerotales
• Family: Anthocerotaceae
• Genus: Anthoceros L. emend. Prosk.
• Species Examples: Anthoceros agrestis, Anthoceros punctatus, Anthoceros neesii, Anthoceros fusiformis, Anthoceros macounii, Anthoceros coriaceus, Anthoceros alpinus.

Common Names

• Hornwort (general term)
• Field Hornwort (Anthoceros agrestis)
• Dotted Hornwort (Anthoceros punctatus)

Distribution and Habitat

• The genus Anthoceros has a global distribution, with the largest diversity found in tropical regions for genera like Dendroceros and Megaceros.
• Anthoceros species are typically found on moist soil, in shady locations, or in rock crevices. They can also grow exposed to both sun and shade. Specific habitats include mineral soil, ditches, terraces, and irrigated sites.

Morphological Characteristics

• The plant body is gametophytic, consisting of a thallus.
• The sporophytes are horn-like in shape.
• Some species have a frilly thallus (e.g., Anthoceros punctatus).

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Some Anthoceros species, such as Anthoceros punctatus, form symbiotic associations with Nostoc spp.
• Studies have investigated the potential for arbuscular mycorrhiza-like symbioses between Anthoceros punctatus and certain fungi.

Further Information

• The Plant List includes information on 166 scientific plant names associated with the genus Anthoceros.
• The Interim Register of Marine and Nonmarine Genera also contains information.
• Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh holds specimens of Anthoceros punctatus.