Neckeraceae family. Also known simply as Neckeropsis, this tiny but mighty plant plays important ecological roles. Let’s explore what makes Neckeropsis comorae so special!
Background on Neckeropsis Moss
Neckeropsis comorae is classified under the Bryophyta division and
Bryopsida class. The Neckeraceae family contains around 200 species of mosses found across the globe. Neckeropsis mosses are pleurocarpous, meaning they have a creeping or hanging growth habit.
N. comorae has pinnately branched stems that form loose mats. The leaves are complanate (flattened in one plane), oblong-lingulate in shape, and have a short double costa. Leaf cells are smooth and linear. The seta (stalk bearing the capsule) is very short. Capsules are immersed to emergent and ovoid to cylindrical in shape. Identifying Neckeropsis in the field requires observing these key characteristics:
Pinnate branching pattern
Complanate, oblong-lingulate leaves
Short double costa in leaves
Smooth, linear leaf cells
Very short seta
Immersed to emergent, ovoid to cylindrical capsules
Global Distribution and Habitat
Neckeropsis comorae is endemic to the Comoros Islands off the coast of East Africa. It grows as an epiphyte on tree trunks and branches in humid montane forests. The limited range makes this species vulnerable to habitat loss.
Ecological Roles and Adaptations
Like other mosses, N. comorae plays several key roles in its ecosystem:
Neckeropsis comorae is a small but fascinating moss with a unique morphology adapted for life in the canopies of the Comoros Islands. While limited in range, it plays outsized ecological roles. Much remains to be learned about the biology of this species. What other secrets does this mighty moss hold? With ongoing research, we may yet find out!
