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Homalia trichomanoides

Homalia trichomanoides, commonly known as Blunt Feather-moss or Lime Homalia Moss, is a species of moss belonging to the genus Homalia.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Homalia trichomanoides (Hedw.) Schimp.
• Family: Neckeraceae
• Order: Leucodontales, Hypnales
• Synonyms:
  • Homalia jamesii Schimp.
  • Homalia jamesii var. gracilis (James in Peck) Wagn.
  • Homalia gracilis

Distribution and Habitat

• Homalia trichomanoides is found in various locations worldwide.
• It is not yet found in California, USA.
• In Washington State, USA, it is not uncommon on trees and calcareous rocks from sea level to montane elevations.
• It can also be found in the UK and parts of Europe, including Northern and Southern Scotland, Northern England, the English Midlands, East Anglia and Wales.
• Some gardeners around the world have also recorded its presence in other regions.

Morphological Characteristics

• The shoots are flattened and can grow up to 6 cm long.
• The leaves are shiny, rounded, and just over 1 mm in size.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• This moss has been found to contain antifungal constituents.

Quirky Facts

• While generally referred to as Homalia trichomanoides or a similar scientific name, some sellers, particularly those in the aquatic trade, refer to a moss as Homalia sp. "Rosa moss". However, it has been suggested this may be a misidentification, with some suggesting it may instead be a species of *Solenostoma* or *Jungermannia*.

Further Information

• GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility) offers a view of Homalia occurrences.
• Tropicos provides botanical information about this moss.
• Encyclopedia of Life also provides information about Homalia trichomanoides and its family, Neckeraceae.
• Species 2000 &amp ITIS Catalogue of Life: 2007 Annual Checklist.