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bryum moss

Scientific Name: Bryum brachyneuron

Family: Bryaceae

Category: Moss

Growth: Nonvascular

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Bryum: A Worldly Genus of Mosses

Bryum is a diverse and widespread genus of mosses belonging to the family Bryaceae. With potentially over a thousand described species, it represents one of the largest moss genera in the world. Different species can be found across various habitats globally.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some Bryum species grow in tufts or patches, potentially making them accessible to pets that graze on or investigate outdoor areas.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Bryum Hedw.
  • Family: Bryaceae
  • Common Names: Bryum moss, Thread-moss (for some species)
  • Synonyms: The text mentions that the genus has been subject to splitting into segregate genera. Rhodobryum roseum is listed as formerly being Bryum roseum. Rosulabryum capillare is listed as (Bryum moss)(Bryum capillare)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Bryum species are found worldwide.
  • Specific locations mentioned include Scotland (Bryum dixonii), Lake Winnipeg, Antarctica, the Netherlands (Baltic bryum), and British Columbia.
  • Habitats range from montane regions to beaches, woods, sheltered grassy areas, and even sidewalk cracks (Bryum caespiticium).
  • Bryum argenteum is also mentioned as being found in the Gurbantunggut desert.

Ecological Role

  • Bryum argenteum is an important component of Biological Soil Crusts (BSCs) in some environments.
  • Silvery thread moss (Bryum argenteum) can be a management consideration in turfgrass settings.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Bryum mosses typically grow in tufts or patches.
  • Stems can range in height, with some species reaching 1 to 3 cm tall.
  • Some species, like Bryum argenteum, form very close tufts or cushions.
  • Dry plants of certain species may exhibit corkscrew-like shoots due to spirally twisted leaves around the stem.
  • Bryum flaccidum grows with its leaves arranged in a rosette.
  • Color varies among species, including pale green, almost white (Bryum argenteum), reddish-green (long-leaved thread moss), and glossy red (Bryum miniatum).

Quirky Facts

  • Bryum argenteum, also known as silvergreen bryum moss, is known to depend on epiphytic bacteria for freezing protection in Antarctic environments.
  • Moss, especially sphagnum, has been used for centuries for absorbent bandages. Bryum caespiticium, also known as sidewalk moss, can be found growing in urban environments.

Genetic Information

  • RAPD (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) techniques have been used to assess genetic diversity within Bryum pseudotriquetrum.
  • Mention of BcChi-A, a GH19 chitinase from the moss Bryum coronatum

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Bryum argenteum is impacted by irrigation water pH.
  • Waitea circinata is an important fungal pathogen of amenity turfgrasses that impacts Bryum.

Further Information

  • Jepson eFlora
  • Encyclopedia of Life
  • Discover Life
  • AusMoss