SafePlants

Bryum: A Diverse Genus of Mosses

Bryum is a large and widespread genus of mosses belonging to the family Bryaceae. With over a thousand described species, Bryum may be the largest genus of mosses in the world.

Considerations for Pets

• Some Bryum species, such as Bryum argenteum, form close tufts or cushions. These formations could potentially trap small insects or other invertebrates, which might attract curious pets.
• The text mentions that Bryum often grows in patches or mixed with other mosses. This can be a consideration if pets are prone to consuming mosses from mixed vegetation sources.

Considerations for Children

• The tufted or patched growth habit of some Bryum species might be attractive to children, who might be tempted to pick or handle the moss.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Bryum Hedw.
• Family: Bryaceae
• Kingdom: Not explicitly stated in the text, but implied as part of the plant kingdom.
• Rank: Genus

Common Names

• Dixon's Thread-moss (Bryum dixonii)
• Capillary Thread-moss (Bryum capillare)
• Silvergreen bryum moss (Bryum argenteum)
• Red thread-moss (Bryum miniatum)

Synonyms and Alternative Names

• Bryum bicolor (synonym for Bryum dichotomum)
• Rhodobryum roseum (formerly Bryum roseum)

Distribution and Habitat

• Bryum species are found worldwide, including in Antarctica.
• Specific locations mentioned include Scotland (Bryum dixonii), Lake Winnipeg, British Columbia (Bryum miniatum), and the Netherlands (Baltic bryum on grazed salt marshes).
• Habitats include montane regions, woods, sheltered grassy areas, beaches, and even sidewalks (Bryum caespiticium).

Morphological Characteristics

• Bryum mosses typically grow in tufts or patches.
• Stems are mostly 1 to 3 cm tall.
• Dry plants may have corkscrew-like shoots with leaves spirally twisted around the stem.
• Bryum argenteum forms pale green or almost white, compact tufts or patches that appear silvery grey.
• Some species, like Bryum flaccidum, grow with leaves arranged in a rosette (rosulate).

Ecological Role

• Bryum argenteum is a desiccation-tolerant moss that is an important component of Biological Soil Crusts (BSCs) in the Gurbantunggut desert.
• The text indicates that Bryum argenteum can be a weed in turfgrass and nursery crops.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Bryum argenteum may depend on epiphytic bacteria for freezing protection in Antarctic environments.
• Waitea circinata is a fungal pathogen that affects turfgrasses where Bryum may grow.

Quirky Facts

• Moss, including Bryum caespiticium (sidewalk moss), has been used for centuries as an absorbent bandage.
• Bryum argenteum exhibits a wide temperature tolerance.

Further Information

• Jepson eFlora for CA Vascular Plants
• Encyclopedia of Life
• Discover Life
• AusMoss