SafePlants

Tetraphis pellucida: Pellucid F-tooth Moss

Tetraphis pellucida, commonly known as pellucid f-tooth moss or simply tetraphis moss, is a fascinating species of moss belonging to the genus Tetraphis. The name refers to its distinctive peristome teeth found on the sporophyte.

Considerations for Pets and Children

• This moss often grows on decaying wood like logs and stumps.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Tetraphis pellucida Hedw.
• Common Names: Pellucid f-tooth moss, Tetraphis moss, Common f-toothed moss
• Family: Tetraphidaceae
• Genus: Tetraphis
• Taxonomic Status: Accepted

Distribution and Habitat

• Tetraphis pellucida is found in the Northern Hemisphere.
• It commonly inhabits decaying wood, particularly coniferous wood.
• In California, it's primarily found on logs and stumps in the northwestern part of the state.
• Specimens have been collected in locations such as the Czech Republic and Berkshire, UK.

Morphological Characteristics

• Forms short (up to 1.5 cm), upright tufts or loose, wide patches.
• Composed of slender, delicate individual shoots.
• Moist patches appear yellow-green.
• Grows in small clumps on stumps or sandstone rocks.
• Features erect capsules with 4 large peristome teeth.

Genetic Information

• Studies have focused on the organellar genomes of Tetraphis pellucida, including the chloroplast genome.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Tetraphis pellucida can be found growing alongside other mosses like Dicranum flagellare on decaying logs.

Further Information

• Taxonomic information can be found in the Integrated Taxonomic Information System (ITIS) with the Taxonomic Serial No. 15791.
• Specimens are preserved in herbaria such as the Hamilton Collection of Mosses at the Shrewsbury Museums Service.
• Additional data is available through resources like Tropicos.

Quirky Facts

• Tetraphis pellucida has gemmae cups that can be a common and easily recognized feature.