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brachythecium moss
Scientific Name: Brachythecium stereopoma
Family: Brachytheciaceae
Category: Moss
Growth: Nonvascular
Duration:
Other Names:
Brachythecium Mosses
The genus Brachythecium encompasses a diverse group of mosses within the family Brachytheciaceae. They are often referred to collectively as "brachythecium moss" in common usage.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Brachythecium Schimp.
- Family: Brachytheciaceae
- Group: Moss
- Synonyms and related names:
- Brachytheciastrum velutinum (Synonym for Brachythecium velutinum)
- Brachythecium asperrimum, Brachythecium gemmascens, Brachythecium lamprochryseum (Synonyms for Brachythecium frigidum)
Distribution and Habitat
- Brachythecium is considered a difficult genus to classify, especially in regions like California.
- Generally found in mesic (moderately moist) environments, avoiding inundated sites. Brachythecium frigidum is noted as an exception to this preference.
- Specific species mentioned inhabit various locations:
- Brachythecium albicans: Dune ridges and widely distributed.
- Brachythecium rivulare: Found in and beside streams on rocks.
- Brachythecium rutabulum: Common in lawns, fields, and on walls in the UK and Netherlands.
Morphological Characteristics
- These mosses form loose, medium-sized patches.
- Capsules are frequently observed, displaying a curved, egg-shaped form with a roughened seta (stalk).
- Some species, like Brachythecium salebrosum (Golden Ragged Moss), are medium-sized to large.
- Brachythecium salebrosum is described as a forest creeping moss.
Species Highlights
- Brachythecium rutabulum (Rough-stalked Feather-moss): Known for its orange-colored seta (stalk).
- Brachythecium velutinum (Velvet Feather-moss): A common, yet variable moss.
- Brachythecium salebrosum (Golden Ragged Moss, Smooth-stalked Yellow Feather Moss): A forest creeping moss.
- Brachythecium frigidum (Cold Brachythecium Moss): An exception to the genus, not requiring mesic conditions.
Genetic Information
- DNA sequence analysis of the ITS region of nrDNA and the atpB-rbcL intergenic spacer has been used to classify Brachythecium appleyardiae.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Studies have examined the desorption of 137Cs from the moss Brachythecium mildeanum using various solutions (H2SO4, HNO3).
- Research has explored heavy metal-induced physiological alterations and oxidative stress in the moss Brachythecium piligerum.
Quirky Facts
- Some people affectionately refer to Brachythecium species as "Star moss" due to its soft and fluffy texture, particularly when used in terrariums.
Further Information
- Herbarium specimens may be found in collections like the Hamilton Collection of Mosses at the Shrewsbury Museums Service.