SafePlants

Atrichum Moss: A Comprehensive Overview

Atrichum, commonly known as Star Moss or Smoothcap Moss, is a genus of mosses appreciated for its compact growth and soil-retention capabilities. This page provides a detailed look at the characteristics, distribution, and ecological role of Atrichum mosses.

Considerations for Pets

• Some Atrichum species have leaves with toothed edges, which could potentially cause minor irritation if handled.

Scientific Classification

• Genus: Atrichum
• Family: Polytrichaceae
• Order: Polytrichales
• Kingdom: (Implicitly Plantae, though not stated directly)

Nomenclature and Synonyms

• Accepted Scientific Name: Multiple species exist within the genus Atrichum. Some mentioned include:
  • Atrichum angustatum (Lesser Smoothcap) - Synonyms include Atrichum angustatum var. plurilamellatum
  • Atrichum undulatum (Common Smoothcap Moss or Undulate Atrichum Moss)
  • Atrichum selwynii (Selwyn's Atrichum Moss) - Synonyms include Atrichum rosulatum
  • Atrichum altecristatum
  • Atrichum tenellum
  • Atrichum papillosum
  • Atrichum aculeatum
  • Atrichum crispulum
  • Atrichum androgynum
  • Atrichum cylindricum (sometimes considered a variety of A. undulatum)

Distribution and Habitat

• Atrichum mosses are found in a variety of moist environments, including soil banks, areas of exposed mineral soil, and at the base of large trees.
• They are prevalent in low to medium elevation areas.
• Specific locations mentioned include:
  • Eastern North America
  • Delaware County, Ohio
  • Southeastern United States
  • Europe
  • Antarctica
  • Austria
  • India

Morphological Characteristics

• Lesser Smoothcap (Atrichum angustatum) is a dull yellowish-green moss, sometimes with red tinges.
• It forms patches of single, unbranched, upright shoots.
• Leaves are narrow with toothed edges and curl when dry.
• Common Smoothcap (Atrichum undulatum) is a robust species with dark green, narrow pointed leaves up to 1cm long.
• Forms lush, dark green cushions on the ground.

Ecological Role and Interactions

• Atrichum mosses help hold soil in place with their compact growth patterns.
• They are tolerant of a variety of pH levels.

Quirky Facts

• Atrichum angustatum is a dioicous moss, meaning individual plants are either male or female, leading to strong segregation of sexes in populations.

Further Resources

• USDA PLANTS Database: http://plants.usda.gov
• GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility): Used for checking information on Atrichum tenellum
• BBS Field Guide: http://www.bbsfieldguide.org.uk/sites/de
• Wikimedia Commons: For images, such as the one of Atrichum angustatum or Star Moss from Lugton.