SafePlants

Ceratodon purpureus: Fire Moss

Ceratodon purpureus, commonly known as fire moss, is a widely distributed moss species noted for its vibrant colors and ecological adaptability.

Common Names

• Fire moss
• Redshank moss
• Ceratodon moss
• Purple horn toothed moss
• Red Roof Moss

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Ceratodon purpureus (Hedw.) Brid.
• Family: Not explicitly mentioned in the text.
• Synonyms:
  • Dicranum purpureum
  • Ceratodon purpurascens
  • Ceratodon purpureus var. purpurascens
• Subspecies/Varieties:
  • Ceratodon purpureus ssp. stenocarpus (Bruch &amp Schimp.) Dix.
  • Ceratodon purpureus var. stenocarpus (Bruch &amp Schimp.)
• Taxonomic Serial Number (TSN): 16864

Distribution and Habitat

Ceratodon purpureus is found worldwide. One specific location mentioned is Caledonia, Marion County, Ohio.

Morphological Characteristics

• Color ranges from yellow-green to red, purplish-brown.
• Shoots can grow up to 3 cm in height.
• Forms cushions or patches.
• The tiny moss has brilliant, deep green color with magnificent red sporophytes.
• Grows upright in dense mound colonies.
• Lance-shaped leaves.
• Capsule is strumose and sulcate, lightly curved.

Genetic Information

• Ceratodon purpureus has been used as a model system to discover novel genes and study induced mutations.
• The moss has a chromosome number of n = 13.
• The phytochrome gene (phyCer) has been isolated and characterized; it is composed of three coding exons.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• It is mentioned to have horn-like peristome teeth.

Quirky Facts

• The name Ceratodon originates from the Latin word "cerato," which means "horn-shaped," referring to the horn-like peristome teeth.
• When it grows in dense mound colonies, it can feel like velvet to the touch.

Further Information

• Allen, B. 2002. Moss flora of Central America, Part 2. Encalyptaceae--Orthotrichaceae. Monogr. Syst. Bot. Missi Bot. Gard.