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bryum moss
Scientific Name: Bryum tenuisetum
Family: Bryaceae
Category: Moss
Growth: Nonvascular
Duration:
Other Names:
Bryum: A Comprehensive Overview
Bryum is a diverse and widespread genus of mosses belonging to the Bryaceae family. This article explores various aspects of Bryum mosses, including their nomenclature, distribution, ecology, and notable characteristics.
Considerations for Pets
- Bryum mosses often grow in tufts or patches, and scattered individuals may be mixed with other mosses.
Nomenclature and Taxonomy
- Scientific Name: Bryum
- Family: Bryaceae
- Common Names:
- Thread-moss (e.g., Dixon's Thread-moss)
- Silvergreen bryum moss (Bryum argenteum)
- Red thread-moss (Bryum miniatum)
- Synonyms:
- Rhodobryum roseum (formerly Bryum roseum)
- Varieties/Subspecies:
- Bryum algovicum var. algovicum
Distribution and Habitat
- Bryum mosses are found worldwide, including:
- Scotland (e.g., Bryum dixonii)
- Antarctica (e.g., Bryum algens, Bryum argenteum)
- Netherlands (Baltic bryum on grazed salt marshes)
- California
- British Columbia (Bryum miniatum)
- Lake Winnipeg (Canada)
- Delaware, Ohio (Bryum capillare)
- Habitats include:
- Montane regions
- Woods and sheltered grassy areas
- Beaches
- Salt marshes
- Turfgrass
Ecological Role
- Bryum argenteum is a desiccation-tolerant moss that forms an important component of Biological Soil Crusts (BSCs) in deserts.
- Silvery thread moss (Bryum argenteum) can be a concern in turfgrass management.
Morphological Characteristics
- Bryum mosses typically grow in tufts or patches.
- Stems are usually 1 to 3 cm tall.
- Bryum argenteum forms compact tufts or cushions, appearing silvery grey.
- Dry plants of some species have corkscrew-like shoots with leaves spirally twisted around the stem.
- Some species, like Bryum flaccidum, grow with leaves arranged in a rosette.
Genetic and Cytological Information
- RAPD (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) techniques have been used to assess genetic diversity in Bryum pseudotriquetrum.
- Bryum argenteum spores are yellow and contain many oil droplets.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Bryum argenteum relies on epiphytic bacteria for freezing protection in Antarctic environments.
- Waitea circinata is a fungal pathogen that affects turfgrasses and can impact Bryum growth in those settings.
Quirky Facts
- Bryum argenteum is also known as silver-moss.
Further Information
- Jepson eFlora for CA Vascular Plants
- Encyclopedia of Life
- Discover Life
- AusMoss