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bryum moss
Scientific Name: Bryum flaccidum
Family: Bryaceae
Category: Moss
Growth: Nonvascular
Duration:
Other Names:
Bryum: A Diverse Genus of Mosses
Bryum is a genus of mosses belonging to the family Bryaceae. This is a large genus, potentially encompassing over a thousand described species, although taxonomic revisions have led to some species being reclassified into segregate genera.
Considerations for Pets
- Mosses such as Bryum grow in tufts or patches.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Bryum Hedw.
- Family: Bryaceae
- Common Name(s): Bryum Moss
- Synonyms: Various species within the genus have their own synonyms. For example, Bryum argenteum Hedw. is also known as silvergreen bryum moss.
Distribution and Habitat
- Bryum dixonii is endemic to Scotland and occupies montane habitats.
- Bryum argenteum, the silvergreen bryum moss, is cosmopolitan.
- Species like Bryum capillare have been observed in locations such as Delaware, Ohio.
- Bryum sandbergii demonstrates wide temperature tolerance and can be found in specific environments.
- Some species have also been found in Antarctic regions.
- Bryum genus of mosses found on a beach along Lake Winnipeg.
Morphological Characteristics
- Bryum argenteum forms pale green or almost white, compact tufts or patches, appearing shiny and silvery-grey.
- Many Bryum species grow in tufts or patches, with stems typically ranging from 1 to 3 cm tall.
- Dry plants may exhibit corkscrew-like shoots, with leaves spirally twisted around the stem.
- Bryum flaccidum leaves arranged in a rosulate.
- Bryum caespiticium forms crowded clumps of leaves at the upper ends of the stems.
Ecological Role
- Bryum argenteum is an important component of Biological Soil Crusts (BSCs) in the Gurbantunggut desert, indicating a role in arid ecosystems.
- Silvery-thread moss (Bryum argenteum) can be a target for biological control in turfgrass and nursery crops, suggesting it can be considered a weed in some contexts.
Genetic Information
- RAPD (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) techniques have been used to assess genetic diversity within Bryum pseudotriquetrum.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Bryum argenteum in Antarctica depends on epiphytic bacteria for freezing protection.
- Waitea circinata is a fungal pathogen that can affect Bryum mosses in amenity turfgrasses.
Quirky Facts
- Bryum caespiticium is also known as sidewalk moss, highlighting its ability to thrive in urban environments.
Further Information
- Jepson eFlora for CA Vascular Plants: Provides information on Bryum species found in California.
- Encyclopedia of Life: A resource for information on Bryum argenteum.
- Discover Life: Offers details on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Bryum argenteum.
- AusMoss: Offers a list of views of species for Bryum.