SafePlants

Atrichum Moss: A Detailed Look

Atrichum, commonly called Star Moss or Smoothcap Moss, is a fascinating genus of moss with unique characteristics and a widespread presence.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that some Atrichum species have toothed edges on their leaves.

Considerations for Children

• The text mentions that some Atrichum species have toothed edges on their leaves.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Atrichum P.Beauv.
• Family: Polytrichaceae
• Synonyms:
  • Atrichum angustatum (Brid.) Bruch & Schimp.
  • Atrichum undulatum (Hedw.) P. Beauv. - Common Smoothcap Moss.
  • Atrichum rosulatum (synonym for Selwyn's Atrichum Moss)

Common Names

• Star Moss
• Smoothcap Moss
• Lesser Smoothcap
• Wavy Starburst Moss
• Slender Starburst Moss
• Crane's-bill Moss (for Atrichum selwynii)
• Selwyn's Atrichum Moss (for Atrichum selwynii)
• Undulate Atrichum Moss

Distribution and Habitat

• Atrichum is a very common moss found on soil banks and other areas of exposed mineral soil.
• It is typically found in moist, low to medium elevation areas.
• Specific locations mentioned include Delaware County, Ohio (Atrichum altecristatum and Atrichum angustatum), and Europe where Atrichum undulatum is widespread.
• Atrichum aculeatum has been found in India.
• Atrichum undulatum has been found in Antarctica and Austria.
• Atrichum selwynii is found in surveyed locations.

Morphological Characteristics

• Lesser smoothcap is a dull-green moss that forms patches of single, unbranched, and upright shoots.
• It has narrow leaves with toothed edges that curl when dry.
• Some species, like Atrichum altercristatum, form lush, dark green cushions on the ground at the base of large trees.
• Atrichum undulatum is among the largest European terrestrial moss species.
• Identification of Common Smoothcap includes robust and distinctive species of moss. It has dark green, narrow pointed leaves up to 1cm long.

Genetic/Cytological Information

• Atrichum angustatum is a dioicous moss, meaning it exhibits strong segregation of sexes in populations.

Ecological Role

• Atrichum moss holds soil in place with its compact growth patterns, helping to prevent erosion.
• It is tolerant of a variety of pH levels.

Interesting Facts

• Some sources once considered Atrichum undulatum to be synonymous with other species, such as in Crum's "Mosses of Eastern North America".

Resources

• USDA PLANTS Database: Provides maps and information (e.g., for Atrichum papillosum).
• GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility): Offers views and data on various Atrichum species, such as Atrichum tenellum.
• BBS Field Guide: Provides information and images, such as for Atrichum undulatum.
• Wikimedia Commons: Hosts media files, like images of Atrichum angustatum.