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bryum moss
Scientific Name: Bryum dichotomum
Family: Bryaceae
Category: Moss
Growth: Nonvascular
Duration:
Other Names:
Bryum Moss: A Comprehensive Overview
Bryum is a diverse genus of mosses belonging to the Bryaceae family. This widespread group includes various species, each with unique characteristics and ecological roles.
Considerations for Pets
- Bryum moss grows in tufts or patches.
Scientific Classification
- Genus: Bryum
- Family: Bryaceae
- Kingdom: (Implied: Plantae)
Nomenclature and Taxonomy
- Bryum is a large genus, which has been split into segregate genera.
- Synonyms and Alternative Names: Mentions several Bryum species and their common names, and includes references to older classifications (e.g. Rhodobryum roseum formerly Bryum roseum).
Species Examples and Common Names
- Bryum dixonii: Dixon's threadmoss
- Bryum argenteum: Silvergreen bryum moss, silvery thread moss
- Bryum capillare: Capillary Thread-moss
- Bryum miniatum: Glossy Red Bryum Moss, red thread-moss
- Bryum dichotomum: Bryum bicolor
- Bryum muehlenbeckii: Muehlenbeck's bryum moss
Distribution and Habitat
- Bryum dixonii is endemic to Scotland, occupying montane habitats.
- Bryum capillare was seen at bluff overlooking Alum Creek in Delaware Ohio.
- Bryum argenteum is found in the Gurbantunggut desert as part of the Biological Soil Crusts (BSCs).
- Rhodobryum roseum (formerly Bryum roseum) is found throughout most of the world in woods or sheltered grassy areas.
- The Bryum genus of mosses was found on a beach along Lake Winnipeg.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Bryum capillare grows in tufts or patches.
- Bryum argenteum forms pale green or almost white, compact tufts or patches that appear shiny and silvery grey.
- Stems are mostly 1 to 3 cm tall. Dry plants usually have corkscrew-like shoots, with leaves spirally twisted around the stem.
- Bryum argenteum forms very close tufts or cushions, occurring in patches or mixed with other mosses.
- Bryum flaccidum grows with its leaves arranged in a rosulate form.
Ecological Role
- Bryum argenteum is an important component of Biological Soil Crusts (BSCs) in the Gurbantunggut desert.
- Silvery thread moss (Bryum argenteum) establishment is affected by irrigation water pH. Control of silvery thread moss growth is a potential management consideration.
Genetic Information
- The RAPD technique (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) has been used to assess genetic diversity in Bryum pseudotriquetrum.
- Studies have examined sex ratios in expressing and nonexpressing shoots for the cosmopolitan moss Bryum argenteum.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Bryum argenteum may depend on epiphytic bacteria for freezing protection in Antarctic environments.
- Waitea circinata is an important fungal pathogen that can affect turfgrasses where Bryum is present.
Resources and Further Information
- Jepson eFlora for CA Vascular Plants, University of California provides information on the genus Bryum.
- Encyclopedia of Life has information about Bryum argenteum.
- Discover Life has information about Bryum argenteum - Silvergreen bryum moss.
- AusMoss has records for Bryum Hedw.