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brachythecium moss

Scientific Name: Brachythecium salebrosum var. salebrosum

Family: Brachytheciaceae

Category: Moss

Growth: Nonvascular

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Brachythecium Moss

Brachythecium is a genus of mosses belonging to the family Brachytheciaceae. Several species are mentioned, each with its own characteristics and common names.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Genus: Brachythecium Schimp. in B.S.G.
  • Family: Brachytheciaceae
  • Order: Hypnales
  • Synonyms/Alternative Names:
    • Brachytheciastrum velutinum (for Brachythecium velutinum)

Species and Common Names

  • Brachythecium rutabulum: Rough-stalked Feather-moss
  • Brachythecium velutinum: Velvet Feather-moss
  • Brachythecium salebrosum: Golden Ragged Moss, Smooth-stalked Yellow Feather Moss, Cedar Moss, Rough Moss
  • Brachythecium albicans: Whitish Feather-moss
  • Brachythecium turgidum: Stiff Brachythecium Moss
  • Brachythecium acuminatum: Acuminate Brachythecium Moss
  • Brachythecium frigidum
  • Brachythecium mildeanum
  • Brachythecium piligerum
  • Brachythecium populeum
  • Brachythecium campestre
  • Brachythecium rivulare
  • Brachythecium reflexum: Pacific Brachythecium Moss

Distribution and Habitat

  • Brachythecium is a difficult genus to classify in California.
  • The genus primarily includes plants of mesic but not inundated sites, with Brachythecium frigidum being an exception.
  • Brachythecium salebrosum is found in forests.
  • Brachythecium albicans is widely distributed on dune ridges.
  • Some species grow on rocks in and beside streams.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Forms loose, medium-sized patches.
  • Capsules are frequent on some species, having a curved, egg-shaped form with a roughened seta.
  • Brachythecium salebrosum is a medium-sized to large moss.

Ecological Role

  • Some species like Bryum algovicum are pioneer species.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Used in studies related to heavy metal-induced physiological alterations and oxidative stress.

Further Information

  • TSN 16242
  • Encyclopedia of Life Family: Brachytheciaceae
  • Plants of Sagehen Creek Basin, CA - Mosses, Ferns, Horsetails, Liverworts, Lycopods

Quirky Facts

  • Some people affectionately call a certain form of Brachythecium "Star moss" due to its soft, fluffy appearance.