SafePlants

Andreaea: The Granite Mosses

The genus Andreaea, often referred to as "granite-mosses" or "lantern mosses," represents a fascinating group of mosses with unique characteristics and a significant ecological role. These mosses are often found growing directly on rocks, especially in mountainous and polar regions.

Considerations for Pets

• Andreaea species are typically small mosses, with some species reaching up to 3 cm in height but often shorter. Small plant parts could potentially be ingested by pets.
• The texts mention that some species of Andreaea form dense tufts. These tufts could potentially harbor insects or other small organisms that might attract a pet's attention.

Considerations for Children

• Andreaea species are typically small mosses, with some species reaching up to 3 cm in height but often shorter. Small plant parts could potentially be ingested by children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Andreaea Hedw.
• Common Names: Andreaea moss, Black Rock-moss, Broad-leaved lantern moss, Schofield's black moss, Schofield's andreaea moss, Icy Rock-moss, Alpine Rock-moss, Hunt's Rock-moss
• Family: Andreaeaceae
• Order: Andreaeales
• Class: Andreaeidae
• Division: Bryophyta
• Synonyms: Andreaea petrophila Ehrh. (modern name: Andreaea rupestris)

Distribution and Habitat

• Andreaea species are found globally, often in mountainous and polar regions.
• Specific locations mentioned include:
  • Europe (Austria, Czech Republic, France, Scandinavia (Sweden and Norway), Scottish Highlands)
  • Antarctica
  • China
  • Ulvedal Plantage, Karup, Jylland, Danmark
• They are often abundant on the surface of rocks.

Ecological Role

• Andreaea species are often abundant on rocks, sometimes including rare species like Andreaea nivalis (Snow rock-moss).

Morphological Characteristics

• Plants are typically blackish green to black, or reddish-brown to dark brown.
• They grow in dense tufts, reaching up to 2 cm high in some cases.
• Andreaea species are unique among mosses because they lack a seta (stalk). The capsule protrudes just above the surrounding structures.
• The capsule wall structure is a distinguishing feature of the Andreaea species.
• Some species, like Andreaea subulata, attain a greater height than typical mosses.

Quirky Facts

• Andreaea mosses are one of two moss genera belonging to the class of mosses known as Andreaeidae.
• Recent studies emphasize the importance of spore size and morphology in identifying different Andreaea species.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• UV-B radiation influences the pigmentation of Antarctic moss Andreaea regularis.

Further Information

• Tropicos
• Integrated Taxonomic Information System