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Exploring the Fascinating World of Campylopus amboroensis Thér. Moss

Mosses are some of the most ancient and resilient plants on Earth, with over 12,000 species found across the globe. One particularly interesting species is Campylopus amboroensis Thér., a moss in the Leucobryaceae family. Let’s take a closer look at this fascinating bryophyte.

Background on Campylopus Mosses

The genus Campylopus, commonly known as swan-neck mosses, contains around 150 species worldwide. They are characterized by their narrow, often curled leaves that give them a distinctive appearance. Campylopus mosses play important ecological roles as pioneer species and in nutrient cycling.

Morphology and Identification of C. amboroensis

Campylopus amboroensis Thér. is a small to medium-sized moss, typically growing in dense tufts or cushions. Its leaves are lanceolate (lance-shaped) and strongly curled when dry, a key identifying feature. The leaf midrib is broad and fills most of the leaf. Capsules are common and borne on a long seta (stalk).

Global Distribution and Habitat

This species is native to South America, specifically Bolivia, where it was first described by French botanist Marie Hypolite Irénée Thériot in 1936. It grows on soil, rocks, and rotting wood in montane forests at elevations of 1500-3000 meters. The specific epithet “amboroensis” refers to Amboró National Park in central Bolivia, one of the locations where it is found.

Ecological Roles and Adaptations

Like other Campylopus mosses, C. amboroensis plays a role in soil formation and stabilization, water retention, and providing habitat for micro-organisms and small invertebrates. Its curled leaves help conserve moisture in dry conditions. As a pioneer species, it helps colonize disturbed areas and pave the way for other plants to establish.

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*campylopus_flexuosus.jpg from: https://www.earth.com/plant-encyclopedia/Bryophytes/Dicranaceae/campylopus-flexuosus/en/*

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*Campylopus_subulatus_014.JPG from: https://cisfbr.org.uk/Bryo/Cornish_Bryophytes_Campylopus_subulatus.html*

*Campylopus-flexuosus-moss.jpg from: https://elmusgo.blogspot.com/2013/06/campylopus-flexuosus.html*

*campylopus_pyriformis.jpg from: https://www.earth.com/plant-encyclopedia/Bryophytes/Dicranaceae/campylopus-pyriformis/en/*

*Campylopus-introflexus-moss.jpg from: https://elmusgo.blogspot.com/2013/04/campylopus-introflexus.html*

Characteristic	Description
Genus	Campylopus
Species	C. amboroensis
Family	Leucobryaceae
Class	Bryopsida
Phylum	Bryophyta
Leaf shape	Lanceolate, strongly curled when dry
Midrib	Broad, filling most of leaf
Capsules	Common, on long seta
Habitat	Soil, rock, rotting wood in montane forests
Elevation range	1500-3000 m
Native region	South America (Bolivia)

Conclusion

Campylopus amboroensis Thér. is a prime example of the incredible diversity and adaptations found in mosses. From its curled leaves to its role as an ecological pioneer, this small but mighty plant reminds us to appreciate the wonders of nature that exist all around us, even in the most overlooked places

*240960.jpg from: https://inpn.mnhn.fr/espece/cd_nom/4424*