SafePlants

Barbula Moss

The genus Barbula encompasses various moss species, several of which are commonly referred to as "barbula moss." This group includes species like Barbula unguiculata, Barbula convoluta, and Barbula indica.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Kingdom: Plantae (Plants)
• Group: Moss
• Family: Pottiaceae
• Genus: Barbula Hedw.
• Symbol: BARBU2
• Synonyms: Examples include Barbula unguiculata f. apiculata (Hedw.) Mnk. and Barbula convoluta var. eustegia.

Common Names

• Barbula Moss
• Bird's-claw Beard-moss (for Barbula unguiculata)
• Convoluted Barbula Moss (for Barbula convoluta)
• Lesser Bird's-claw Beard-moss (for Barbula convoluta)
• Tufted Barbula Moss (for Barbula caespitosa)

Distribution and Habitat

In California, Barbula species are considered rather uncommon plants, typically found in disturbed or semi-desert sites. One species, Barbula unguiculata, was isolated from a road margin in Osaka, Japan.

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 which forms cushions or tufts.

Genetic and Cytological Information

Barbula unguiculata has been used in studies involving cell suspension cultures to understand chlorophyll production and other physiological processes, as well as the isolation of germin-like proteins.

Interactions with Other Organisms

A new species of *Pythium*, *Pythium barbulae*, was isolated from *Barbula unguiculata*, a non-symptomatic moss.

Resources and Further Information

• USDA, NRCS. The PLANTS Database. National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA, USA. (Provides data and maps for some Barbula species)
• GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility) - Provides a view on Barbula indica and other species.