*o_rupestre.jpg from: https://wnmu.edu/academic/nspages/gilaflora/orthotrichum_rupestre.html*

Exploring the Fascinating World of Orthotrichum rupestre var. lamelliferum Culm. Moss

Introduction

Mosses are some of the most ancient and resilient plants on Earth. Among the diverse world of mosses, one particularly interesting species is Orthotrichum rupestre var. lamelliferum Culm., a member of the Orthotrichaceae family. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at this fascinating moss, from its unique morphology to its global distribution and ecological roles. Get ready to dive into the miniature world of Orthotrichum!

*o_rupestre6.jpg from: https://admissions.wnmu.edu/academic/nspages/gilaflora/orthotrichum_rupestre.html*

Background on Mosses

Before we focus on our star species, let’s briefly review what mosses are. Mosses are non-vascular plants in the division Bryophyta. They lack true roots, stems, and leaves, instead having structures that serve similar functions. Mosses reproduce via spores rather than seeds and are found in a wide range of habitats worldwide, from arctic tundra to tropical rainforests.

Morphology and Identification

Orthotrichum rupestre var. lamelliferum is a small moss, typically growing in tufts or cushions. Its leaves are lance-shaped and have a distinct lamellae (rib-like structures) on the upper surface, hence the varietal name “

*anomale-borsten-moos-orthotrichum-anomalum-ein-kissen-eines-gemeinsamen-mooses-zeigen-braune-laubmoose-in-familie-orthotrichaceae-fjek81.jpg from: https://www.alamy.de/fotos-bilder/orthotrichum.html*

lamelliferum“. The leaf margins are usually recurved.
Capsules (spore-bearing structures) are important for identifying Orthotrichum species. In O. rupestre var. lamelliferum, the capsules are cylindrical and ribbed when dry, with 8 exostome teeth that split into 16 when mature. The calyptra (cap covering the capsule) is bell-shaped and hairy.

Global Distribution and Habitat

This moss has a wide distribution, being found in Europe, Asia, Africa, and North and South America. It grows on rocks, especially calcareous substrates, in dry, exposed habitats from lowlands to mountains. The species epithet “rupestre” means “growing on rocks.”

Ecological Roles and Adaptations

Like other mosses, O. rupestre var. lamelliferum plays important roles in its ecosystems:

Erosion control: Moss cushions stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
Water retention: Mosses absorb and retain water, regulating moisture in their habitats.
Habitat for microorganisms: Many tiny invertebrates make their homes in moss cushions.

This moss has adaptations for surviving in dry, exposed rock faces:

Lamellae on leaves increase surface area for photosynthesis and gas exchange.
Recurved leaf margins help conserve moisture.
Thick-walled spores can withstand desiccation and UV radiation.

Conclusion

Orthotrichum rupestre var. lamelliferum may be small, but it is a fascinating and important member of rock-dwelling moss communities worldwide. Next time you see a cushion of moss on a boulder, take a closer look – it might be this remarkable species! What other secrets of the miniature world of mosses are waiting to be uncovered?