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bryum moss
Scientific Name: Bryum amblyodon
Family: Bryaceae
Category: Moss
Growth: Nonvascular
Duration:
Other Names:
Bryum Moss
Bryum is a diverse genus of mosses belonging to the family Bryaceae. These mosses are found worldwide and exhibit a variety of growth forms and ecological roles.
Considerations for Pets
- Bryum moss often grows in tufts or patches, with stems usually 1 to 3 cm tall.
- Dry plants usually have corkscrew-like shoots, with leaves spirally twisted around the stem.
Scientific Name and Common Names
- Scientific Name: Bryum
- Common Names: Several species have common names, including:
- Dixon's threadmoss (Bryum dixonii)
- Capillary Thread-moss (Bryum capillare)
- Silvergreen bryum moss (Bryum argenteum)
- Red thread-moss (Bryum miniatum)
- Muehlenbeck's bryum moss (Bryum muehlenbeckii)
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Family: Bryaceae
- Genus: Bryum Hedw.
- Rank: Genus and Species (various)
- Synonyms: Several synonyms exist, reflecting the complex taxonomy of the genus and its division into segregate genera.
Distribution and Habitat
- Bryum species are found globally.
- Specific habitats mentioned include:
- Montane habitats (Bryum dixonii in Scotland)
- Woods or sheltered grassy areas (Rhodobryum roseum, formerly Bryum roseum)
- Beaches (observed in Lake Winnipeg)
- Biological Soil Crusts (BSCs) in the Gurbantunggut desert (Bryum argenteum)
- Turfgrass (Bryum argenteum)
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Bryum mosses typically grow in tufts or patches.
- Stem height is usually between 1 and 3 cm.
- Some species, like Bryum argenteum, form compact tufts or cushions that appear silvery-grey.
- Dry plants of some species can exhibit corkscrew-like shoots with spirally twisted leaves.
Ecological Role
- Bryum argenteum is an important component of Biological Soil Crusts in desert environments.
- Bryum argenteum, also known as silvery thread moss, can become a management consideration where its establishment is unwanted.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Mention of epiphytic bacteria providing freezing protection to Bryum argenteum in Antarctic environments.
- Reference to Waitea circinata as an important fungal pathogen affecting turfgrass where Bryum argenteum grows.
Genetic Information
- The RAPD (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) technique has been used to assess genetic diversity in Bryum pseudotriquetrum.
Quirky Facts
- Bryum argenteum collected in the field has been used to test hypotheses about sex ratios in moss shoots.
- Moss, especially sphagnum, has been used for centuries as absorbent bandage. Bryum caespiticium is also known as sidewalk moss.
Further Information
- Jepson eFlora for CA Vascular Plants: [Jepson eFlora](URL - if provided)
- Encyclopedia of Life: Search for Bryum argenteum
- Discover Life: Page about Bryum argenteum
- AusMoss: [AusMoss](URL - if provided)