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bryum moss

Scientific Name: Bryum algovicum

Family: Bryaceae

Category: Moss

Growth: Nonvascular

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Bryum: A Diverse Genus of Mosses

Bryum is a widespread genus of mosses belonging to the family Bryaceae. This genus encompasses a diverse array of species found in various habitats worldwide. Several species within this genus have garnered specific attention due to their ecological roles and unique characteristics.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some Bryum species grow in tufts or patches.

Considerations for Children

  • Some Bryum species grow in tufts or patches.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Bryum Hedw.
  • Family: Bryaceae
  • Common Names: Bryum moss, silvergreen bryum moss.
  • Synonyms: Mentions of Rhodobryum roseum (formerly Bryum roseum)
  • Examples of Species:
    • Bryum dixonii Cardot ex W.E.Nicholson (Dixon's Thread-moss)
    • Bryum capillare
    • Bryum argenteum Hedw. (silvergreen bryum moss)
    • Bryum miniatum Lesq. (red thread-moss, glossy red bryum moss)
    • Bryum muehlenbeckii (Muehlenbeck’s bryum moss)
    • Bryum flaccidum
    • Bryum sandbergii
    • Bryum dichotomum (Bryum bicolor)
    • Bryum pseudotriquetrum
    • Bryum algovicum var. algovicum Sendtn. ex C. Mll.
    • Bryum aeneum Blytt ex Bruch & Schimp. in B.S.G.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Bryum species are found throughout most of the world.
  • Bryum dixonii is endemic to Scotland, occupying montane habitats.
  • Bryum argenteum can be found in the Gurbantunggut desert.
  • One report mentions Bryum found on a beach along Lake Winnipeg.
  • Baltic bryum grows on grazed salt marshes in the Netherlands.
  • Bryum capillare was found at a bluff overlooking Alum Creek in Delaware, Ohio.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Bryum capillare grows in tufts or patches, with stems.
  • Bryum argenteum forms pale green or almost white, compact tufts or patches that appear shiny and silvery grey.
  • Most Bryum stems are 1 to 3 cm tall.
  • Dry Bryum plants often have corkscrew-like shoots, with leaves spirally twisted around the stem.
  • Bryum flaccidum grows with its leaves arranged in a rosulate pattern.
  • Long-leaved thread moss is reddish-green and grows in tufts.

Ecological Role

  • Bryum argenteum is an important component of Biological Soil Crusts (BSCs) in some desert environments.

Genetic Information

  • The RAPD (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) technique has been used to assess genetic diversity in Bryum pseudotriquetrum.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Bryum argenteum depends on epiphytic bacteria for freezing protection in Antarctic environments.
  • Waitea circinata is an important fungal pathogen that affects Bryum argenteum on amenity turfgrasses.

Quirky Facts

  • Sphagnum Moss, an example being Bryum caespiticium, or sidewalk moss, has been used for centuries for absorbent bandage.

Further Information

  • Jepson eFlora
  • Encyclopedia of Life
  • Discover Life