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barbula moss

Scientific Name: Barbula agraria

Family: Pottiaceae

Category: Moss

Growth: Nonvascular

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Barbula Moss

This page provides information about various mosses within the genus Barbula, a group known for its diverse species and ecological roles. Several species share the common name "barbula moss," including Barbula unguiculata, Barbula convoluta, Barbula agraria, and Barbula indica.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some Barbula species grow in turfs or cushions, potentially creating an attractive but possibly fragile surface for pets to interact with.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Kingdom: Plantae (Plants)
  • Group: Moss
  • Family: Pottiaceae
  • Genus: Barbula Hedw.
  • Species Examples:
    • Barbula unguiculata Hedw. (Bird's-claw Beard-moss)
    • Barbula convoluta (Convoluted barbula moss)
    • Barbula agraria Hedw.
    • Barbula indica
    • Barbula caespitosa Schwaegr. (Tufted Barbula Moss)
  • Synonyms:
    • Barbula unguiculata f. apiculata (Hedw.) Mnk.
    • Barbula unguiculata f. propagulosa Crum.

Distribution and Habitat

  • In California, Barbula species are described as rather uncommon plants of disturbed or semi-desert sites.
  • Barbula unguiculata was found on a road margin in Osaka, Japan.
  • Some species are found in calcareous regions of the Austrian Alps.
  • Barbula mosses can grow on roots of trees in grassy areas.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Barbula unguiculata grows in distinctive, bright yellow-green turfs up to 1.5 cm tall.
  • The leaves of Barbula unguiculata are usually 1.5 to 2 mm long and spread away from the stem when moist.
  • Barbula convoluta is a bright, yellow-green moss that forms cushions or tufts.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • A new species of Pythium, Pythium barbulae, was isolated from a non-symptomatic Barbula unguiculata moss.
  • Barbula species can serve as bio-monitors for metals in the environment.

Further Information

  • USDA PLANTS Database: http://plants.usda.gov
  • GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility) provides data on Barbula indica.