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Splachnum: The Dung Moss

Splachnum, commonly known as dung moss, is a fascinating genus of mosses adapted to a unique habitat. These mosses belong to the family Splachnaceae and are known for their association with animal dung.

Considerations for Pets

• While specific toxicity information isn't provided, some species of Splachnum are known as "pinkstink dung moss" and other "stink moss" which may indicate an unpleasant odor or taste that could deter pets.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Splachnum
• Family: Splachnaceae
• Kingdom: Plantae (implied)

Some notable species and their synonyms include:

• Splachnum sphaericum: Also known as pinkstink dung moss, umbrella moss, or round-fruited collar-moss. Synonym: Splachnum ovatum Dicks. ex Hedw.
• Splachnum luteum: Also known as yellow moosedung moss or yellow parasollmose (in some regions).
• Splachnum rubrum: Also known as brilliant red dung moss, umbrella moss, or petticoat moss.
• Splachnum ampullaceum: Also known as small capsule dung moss or purple-vased stink moss.
• Splachnum pennsylvanicum: Also known as Southern dung moss.
• Splachnum vasculosum

Distribution and Habitat

• Splachnum species are found in various regions, including North America, upland Britain, and Finland.
• They are often found in specific habitats such as high elevation pitch pine – spruce – sphagnum wetlands in the Allegheny Mountains.
• Many boreal species primarily grow on herbivore dung.

Ecological Role

• Splachnum mosses are coprophilous, meaning they thrive on dung.
• They have evolved a unique spore dispersal mechanism involving flies, which are attracted to the dung substrate and aid in spreading the spores.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Splachnum species attract flies for spore dispersal, showcasing a fascinating example of entomophily (pollination/spore dispersal by insects).
• They coexist with other moss genera like Tetraplodon, with niche differentiation affecting their distribution.

Quirky Facts

• The common name "pinkstink dung moss" suggests a unique combination of color and odor.
• These mosses rely on flies to spread their spores, a fascinating adaptation to their dung-dwelling lifestyle.

Further Information

• PLANTS Database for Splachnum ampullaceum: [PLANTS Profile for Splachnum ampullaceum (small capsule dung moss)]
• Encyclopedia of Life: [Splachnum vasculosum. Go to Encyclopedia of Life]