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sand spikemoss
Scientific Name: Selaginella arenicola ssp. arenicola
Family: Selaginellaceae
Category: Lycopod
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Sand Spikemoss (Selaginella arenicola)
Selaginella arenicola, commonly known as Sand Spikemoss, is a fascinating plant found in specific habitats of the southern United States.
Considerations for Pets
- This plant grows in sandy areas.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Selaginella arenicola
- Common Name: Sand Spikemoss
- Family: Selaginellaceae (Spike-moss Family)
- Rank: Species
- Subspecies: Selaginella arenicola subsp. arenicola
- Synonyms: Selaginella acanthonota (Underw.) Waterfall (Spiny Spikemoss)
Distribution and Habitat
- Sand Spikemoss thrives in dry, sandy sites and Florida/white sand scrub habitats.
- It is found in the southern United States, specifically in states like Georgia, Florida, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas, and Arkansas.
- Observed in locations such as Warea Tract, Seminole State Forest, Lake County, FL, and Jupiter Ridge Natural Area.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- It is a native, perennial, small, non-flowering plant.
- Described as a forb/herb, meaning it is a non-woody plant that is not a grass.
- Possesses underground stems.
- Branching stems that grow on rocks or in sand.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- A fungal endophyte, FL0768, has been identified in Selaginella arenicola.
- Grows in sand scrub habitats alongside lichens and mosses.
Quirky Facts
- Sand Spikemoss can be found in Florida's "scrub" environments, which are described as the tops of ancient sand dunes.
- It reproduces by spores, a characteristic of pteridophytes.
Further Information
- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
- Wikimedia Commons
- Martin County NatureWatch