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calliergon moss

Scientific Name: Calliergon cordifolium

Family: Amblystegiaceae

Category: Moss

Growth: Nonvascular

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Calliergon cordifolium and Related Species

This page provides information about Calliergon cordifolium and related mosses from the genus Calliergon. Note that the common name "calliergon moss" is often used generally to refer to members of this genus.

Considerations for Pets

  • While often found on lake beds, the texts do not mention the presence of sap, thorns, or other physical characteristics that might be dangerous.

Considerations for Children

  • While often found on lake beds, the texts do not mention the presence of sap, thorns, or other physical characteristics that might be dangerous.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Calliergon cordifolium (Hedw.) Kindb.
  • Family: Amblystegiaceae
  • Kingdom: (Implied: Plant)
  • Rank: Species
  • Synonyms:
    • Acrocladium cordifolium (Hedw.) P. Rich.
    • Hypnum cordifolium Hedw.
    • Calliergon richardsonii var. robustum (Lindb. &amp Arnell) Broth. emend. Karcz. (for related species, possibly C. giganteum)
  • Other Related Species:
    • Calliergon giganteum (Schimp.) Kindb.
    • Calliergon stramineum (Brid.) Kindb.
    • Calliergonella cuspidata (Hedw.) Loeske
    • Calliergon macounii
    • Calliergon megalophyllum

Common Names

  • Calliergon Moss (used for multiple Calliergon species)
  • Heart-leaved Spear-moss (for Calliergon cordifolium)
  • Giant Calliergon Moss or Giant Spear-moss or Arctic Moss (for Calliergon giganteum)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Calliergon giganteum is found in arctic tundra regions, specifically on lake beds.
  • It is common in the Northern Hemisphere within the arctic circle
  • The moss Calliergon megalophyllum has been rediscovered in the Netherlands.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Calliergon cordifolium has erect, little-branched shoots and is medium-sized to large.
  • Calliergon giganteum does not have woody stems and is an aquatic plant.

Ecological Role

  • In the arctic, moss like Calliergon giganteum covers the ground and warms it, allowing other plants to grow.
  • It is eaten by migrating animals in the arctic.

Interactions with other organisms

  • Calliergon giganteum is part of the diet for migrating animals in the arctic.

Further Information

  • ITIS: Integrated Taxonomic Information System (TSN 16185 for Calliergon cordifolium, TSN 16188 for Calliergon giganteum)
  • USDA Plants Database (Symbol: CALLI10)
  • Encyclopedia of Life