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bryum moss
Scientific Name: Bryum aeneum
Family: Bryaceae
Category: Moss
Growth: Nonvascular
Duration:
Other Names:
Bryum: An Overview
Bryum is a diverse genus of mosses belonging to the family Bryaceae. With potentially over a thousand described species, it's recognized as one of the largest moss genera, though some classifications have led to its division into separate genera.
Considerations for Pets
- Bryum mosses can grow in tufts or patches.
Considerations for Children
- Bryum mosses can grow in tufts or patches.
Scientific Name and Common Names
- Scientific Name: Bryum
- Common Names: Bryum moss, silvergreen bryum moss, capillary thread-moss, Dixon's threadmoss, red thread-moss (glossy red bryum moss), sidewalk moss
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Family: Bryaceae
- Genus: Bryum Hedw.
- Synonyms: Rhodobryum roseum (formerly Bryum roseum)
Distribution and Habitat
- Bryum mosses are found worldwide.
- Specific locations mentioned include Scotland (Bryum dixonii, endemic), California, Lake Winnipeg, Delaware Ohio, Antarctica (Bryum algens), and grazed salt marshes in the Netherlands.
- Habitats include montane regions, woods, sheltered grassy areas, and areas with excess surface moisture.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Bryum mosses grow in tufts or patches, with stems typically 1 to 3 cm tall.
- Bryum argenteum forms compact, pale green or silvery-grey tufts or cushions.
- Dry plants of some species may have corkscrew-like shoots, with leaves spirally twisted around the stem.
- Some species, like Bryum flaccidum, grow with leaves arranged in a rosette.
- Bryum argenteum is desiccation-tolerant.
Genetic and Cytological Information
- The RAPD (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) technique has been used to assess genetic diversity in Bryum pseudotriquetrum.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Bryum argenteum can depend on epiphytic bacteria for freezing protection in Antarctic environments.
- Waitea circinata is a fungal pathogen that affects Bryum mosses in amenity turfgrasses.
Quirky Facts
- Bryum argenteum is described as the most recognizable of all British mosses.
- Moss, especially sphagnum, has been used for centuries as absorbent bandages. Bryum caespiticium is also known as sidewalk moss.
Resources and Further Information
- Jepson eFlora for CA Vascular Plants, University of California
- Encyclopedia of Life
- Discover Life
- AusMoss