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campylopus moss

Scientific Name: Campylopus flexuosus

Family: Dicranaceae

Category: Moss

Growth: Nonvascular

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Campylopus introflexus

Also known as Heath Star-moss, Campylopus introflexus is a species of moss.

Considerations for Pets

  • This plant forms dark green or almost black patches that look hoary when dry, potentially attracting the interest of pets.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Campylopus introflexus (Hedw.) Brid.
  • Family: Dicranaceae
  • Order: Dicranales
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Common Name: Heath star moss

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to the southern hemisphere, specifically southern South America.
  • It has become an alien invasive species in regions such as Europe, North America, Lithuania, Denmark (coastal dune systems), and Poland.
  • Found on acidic and nutrient-poor sandy soils with sparse vegetation.
  • Also found in high-temperature geothermal areas, such as in south-western Iceland.

Ecological Role

  • Campylopus introflexus is an invasive moss that can endanger natural vegetation.
  • It's adapted to acidic and nutrient-poor sandy soils, potentially outcompeting native species in those environments.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Forms dark green or almost black patches that look hoary when dry.
  • Stems may grow up to 5 cm long.

Quirky Facts

  • The rapid spread of Campylopus introflexus within newly colonized continents like Europe (since 1941) and North America (since 1975) is notable.