SafePlants

Bryum: A Diverse Genus of Mosses

Bryum is a widespread and diverse genus of mosses belonging to the family Bryaceae.

Considerations for Pets and Children

• Some Bryum species grow in tufts or patches, potentially making them accessible to pets or children outdoors.
• Dry plants of certain species, like Bryum argenteum, can have spirally twisted leaves around the stem, creating an unusual texture that might attract curiosity.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Bryum Hedw.
• Family: Bryaceae
• Rank: Genus
• Synonyms (for Bryum argenteum): Bryum argenteum Hedw.
• Other Taxa:
  • Bryum algovicum var. algovicum Sendtn. ex C. Mll.
  • Bryum aeneum Blytt ex Bruch &amp Schimp. in B.S.G.
  • Rosulabryum capillare (formerly Bryum roseum)
  • Bryum miniatum Lesq.
  • Bryum coronatum

Common Names

• Silvergreen bryum moss (for Bryum argenteum)
• Dixon's Thread-moss (for Bryum dixonii)
• Capillary Thread-moss (for Bryum capillare)
• Red thread-moss/Glossy red bryum moss (for Bryum miniatum)
• Silvery Threadmoss (Bryum argenteum)
• Sidewalk moss (Bryum caespiticium)

Distribution and Habitat

• Bryum species are found globally.
• Bryum dixonii is endemic to Scotland, occupying montane habitats.
• Bryum argenteum has a cosmopolitan distribution and is an important component of Biological Soil Crusts (BSCs) in deserts like the Gurbantunggut.
• Bryum capillare was found at bluff overlooking Alum Creek in Delaware Ohio.
• One source mentions finding the Bryum genus along Lake Winnipeg.
• Baltic bryum can be found growing on grazed salt marshes in the Netherlands.

Ecological Role

• Bryum argenteum is mentioned as being considered in biological control in turfgrass and nursery crops.

Morphological Characteristics

• Bryum mosses often grow in tufts or patches.
• Stems are typically 1 to 3 cm tall.
• Dry plants of some species (e.g., Bryum argenteum) can have corkscrew-like shoots with leaves spirally twisted around the stem.
• Bryum argenteum forms close tufts or cushions of pale green or almost white color, sometimes appearing silvery-grey.
• Bryum flaccidum grows with its leaves arranged in a rosulate fashion.
• Long-leaved thread moss grows in tufts and is reddish-green in color.
• Bryum argenteum (Bryaceae) is a common moss, which has numerous spores per capsule. In addition, its spores are yellow and have many oil droplets.

Genetic and Cytological Information

• RAPD (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) techniques have been used to assess genetic diversity in Bryum pseudotriquetrum.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Bryum argenteum is dependent on epiphytic bacteria for freezing protection in Antarctic environments.
• Waitea circinata is an important fungal pathogen of amenity turfgrasses, which can affect Bryum argenteum.

Quirky Facts

• Bryum argenteum has been shown to exhibit wide temperature tolerance.

Further Information

• Jepson eFlora for CA Vascular Plants, University of California.
• Encyclopedia of Life.
• Discover Life.
• AusMoss.