No images found for this plant ID: 6945.
Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "6945" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.
campylopus moss
Scientific Name: Campylopus aureus
Family: Dicranaceae
Category: Moss
Growth: Nonvascular
Duration:
Other Names:
Campylopus introflexus: Heath Star-moss
Campylopus introflexus, commonly known as heath star-moss, is a fascinating species of moss with a notable history and impact.
Considerations for Pets
- This moss can form dense carpets, which might present a potential ingestion hazard for pets, especially smaller animals.
Considerations for Children
- The moss may grow in patches, which could be tempting for children to pick and play with.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Campylopus introflexus (Hedw.) Brid.
- Common Names: Heath star-moss
- Family: Dicranaceae
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Synonyms: (Not explicitly listed, but the text mentions the importance of synonyms in general)
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to the southern hemisphere, including southern South America.
- Now found as an invasive species in Europe and North America.
- Adapted to acidic and nutrient-poor sandy soils, often in coastal dune systems and disturbed peatlands.
- Also found in geothermal areas, such as Iceland and Mount Melbne.
- A rare moss known as Bermuda Campylopus, which is endemic to Bermuda is found in Paget Marsh, growing at the base of Bermuda Palmetto trees.
Ecological Role
- An invasive species in many regions, including Europe, North America, and central Europe.
- Can endanger natural vegetation.
- Its encroachment can affect fungal diversity and seasonal succession in peatlands.
Morphological Characteristics
- Forms dark green or almost black patches that appear hoary when dry.
- Stems can grow up to 5 cm long.
- Dry hair points are reflexed.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Mentioned in relation to its effect on seeds and seedling performance on moss carpets versus bare ground.
- Can impact the activity of insects in moss-encroached sites.
- Fungal communities are affected by the presence of Campylopus introflexus in peatlands.
Quirky Facts
- Campylopus introflexus was first noted in Europe in 1941 and in North America in 1975, showcasing its rapid spread.
- It can be found growing on sand dunes in Germany.
Further Information
- USDA PLANTS Database
- Encyclopedia of Life
- ARKive (for information on Silky swan-neck moss, but relevant to mosses in general)