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bryum moss
Scientific Name: Bryum capillare
Family: Bryaceae
Category: Moss
Growth: Nonvascular
Duration:
Other Names:
Bryum: An Overview of Thread Moss
Bryum is a diverse genus of mosses belonging to the family Bryaceae. Several species within this genus have common names, and some are quite widespread.
Considerations for Pets
- Some Bryum species grow in tufts or patches, which may be tempting for pets to investigate.
- Dry plants of certain species, like some forms of B. capillare, can have corkscrew-like shoots.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Bryum Hedw.
- Family: Bryaceae
- Common Names: Examples include Dixon's thread-moss (Bryum dixonii), silvergreen bryum moss (Bryum argenteum), red thread-moss (Bryum miniatum), and capillary thread-moss (B. capillare).
- Synonyms: Rhodobryum roseum (formerly Bryum roseum) and Rosulabryum capillare (Bryum moss)(Bryum capillare)
Distribution and Habitat
- Bryum dixonii is endemic to Scotland, occupying montane habitats.
- B. capillare is described as a very common moss.
- Bryum argenteum has a cosmopolitan distribution.
- One report indicates that Baltic bryum grows on grazed salt marshes in the Netherlands.
- Rhodobryum roseum (formerly Bryum roseum) is found throughout most of the world in woods or sheltered grassy areas.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Bryum mosses typically grow in tufts or patches.
- Stems are mostly 1 to 3 cm tall.
- Bryum argenteum forms pale green or almost white, compact tufts or patches that appear shiny and silvery grey.
- Dry plants, particularly of B. capillare, often have corkscrew-like shoots, with leaves spirally twisted around the stem.
- Bryum argenteum forms close tufts or cushions and may occur as scattered individuals mixed with other mosses.
Ecological Role
- Bryum argenteum is an important component of Biological Soil Crusts (BSCs) in some environments.
- Silvery thread moss (Bryum argenteum) can be a concern in turfgrass management.
Genetic Information
- RAPD (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) techniques have been used to assess genetic diversity in Bryum pseudotriquetrum.
- Studies have examined sex ratios in expressing and nonexpressing shoots of Bryum argenteum.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Some studies focus on the dependence on epiphytic bacteria for freezing protection in Bryum argenteum.
- Bryum can be affected by fungal pathogens such as Waitea circinata in turfgrasses.
Quirky Facts
- Bryum may be the largest genus of mosses in the world, with over a thousand described species.
Further Information
- Jepson eFlora for CA Vascular Plants (California Moss eFlora)
- Discover Life offers a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Bryum argenteum.
- Encyclopedia of Life
- AusMoss (for records and analysis of Bryum sightings)