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campylopus moss

Scientific Name: Campylopus introflexus

Family: Dicranaceae

Category: Moss

Growth: Nonvascular

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Heath Star-moss: Campylopus introflexus

Campylopus introflexus, commonly known as heath star-moss, is a species of moss belonging to the family Dicranaceae. This moss is known for its invasive tendencies, particularly in Europe and North America.

Considerations for Pets

  • This moss can form dense patches.

Considerations for Children

  • This moss can form dense patches.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Campylopus introflexus (Hedw.) Brid.
  • Family: Dicranaceae
  • Order: Dicranales
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Common Name: Heath star-moss, campylopus moss
  • Synonyms: Mentions of "Campylopus pilifer" as related, "Campylopus flexuosus", "Campylopus oerstedianus", "Campylopus adustus", "Campylopus atrovirens"
  • Other Species Mentioned: Campylopus carolinae, Campylopus fragilis, Campylopus pyriformis, Campylopus umbellatus

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to the southern hemisphere, including southern South America.
  • Has become an invasive species in Europe and North America.
  • Found in various locations including:
    • Danish coastal dune systems
    • Lithuania
    • Poland
    • Germany (e.g., North Rhine-Westphalia, Elbtalduenen)
    • Iceland (geothermal areas)
    • Bermuda (Paget Marsh, at the base of Bermuda Palmetto trees - rare)
  • Adapted to acidic and nutrient-poor sandy soils with sparse vegetation.

Ecological Role

  • Invasive species in Europe and North America, endangering natural vegetation.
  • Can encroach on moss-encroached sites, impacting day-active species.
  • Can impact peatlands.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Forms dark green or almost black patches that look hoary when dry.
  • Stems may grow to 5 cm long.
  • Plants can grow upright to 1-5 cm tall (Black fish hook moss).

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Grows on sand dunes.
  • Fungal diversity can be affected under Campylopus introflexus.

Quirky Facts

  • It can be found growing in cracks in slate roofs.

Further Information

  • USDA, NRCS. The PLANTS Database. National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA, USA.
  • Encyclopedia of Life.
  • Integrated Taxonomic Information System.