Entosthodon drummondii var. obtusifolius: Exploring the Enchanting World of Mosses
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Entosthodon-californicus-1024×613.jpg from: https://shasta-cnps.org/bring-on-the-bryophytes/
Exploring the Fascinating World of Entosthodon drummondii var. obtusifolius Moss
Mosses are small but mighty plants that play important roles in ecosystems around the world. One particularly interesting species is
Entodon-seductrix-7-750×500.jpg from: https://ohiomosslichen.org/moss-entodon-seductrix/
Entosthodon drummondii var. obtusifolius Holz., a moss in the Funariaceae family. Let’s take a closer look at this fascinating little plant!
Background on Entosthodon Mosses
The genus Entosthodon contains around 150 species of mosses found across the globe. They belong to the division Bryophyta and class Bryopsida. Entosthodon mosses are generally small, growing in tufts or cushions on soil, rocks, or rotting wood. Many species have round or pear-shaped capsules on tall stalks.
2019-02-17-12-00-03-800×600.jpg from: https://www.britishbryologicalsociety.org.uk/learning/species-finder/entosthodon-muhlenbergii/
2020-03-09-15-17-27.jpg from: https://www.britishbryologicalsociety.org.uk/learning/species-finder/entosthodon-fascicularis/
Morphology and Identification of E. drummondii var. obtusifolius
E. drummondii var. obtusifolius is a tiny moss, typically only 2-10 mm tall. Its leaves are oblong-lanceolate and have an obtuse tip, hence the varietal name “obtusifolius” meaning blunt-leaved. The leaf margins are entire (smooth-edged).
105396.jpg from: https://www.biolib.cz/en/image/id105396/
Capsules are pear-shaped and reddish-brown when mature, borne on a tall seta
DT_Entostho_apophy.jpg from: https://www.anbg.gov.au/abrs/Mosses_online/67_Funariaceae.html
(stalk). Spores are released from the capsule through a small hole called the operculum when the capsule dries out.
Global Distribution and Habitat
This moss has a scattered global distribution, being found in parts of Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. It grows in small patches on exposed, often calcareous soils, such as in grasslands, sand dunes, cliff ledges, and disturbed habitats.
In North America, E. drummondii var. obtusifolius occurs in the western United States and Mexico. Some key locations include:
Entosthodon+pulchellus+%2528Pretty+Cord-moss%2529+Rhossili+Church+16feb11+%2528137%2529.jpg from: https://moonmoths.blogspot.com/2011/02/rhossili-church.html
Entosthodon_attenuatus_006.JPG from: https://cisfbr.org.uk/Bryo/Cornish_Bryophytes_Entosthodon_attenuatus.html
NK_Entos_subnud_gracilis_1.jpg from: https://www.anbg.gov.au/abrs/Mosses_online/67_Funariaceae_images.html
| Region | Habitat |
|---|---|
| California | Coastal bluffs, chaparral |
| Baja California | Maritime desert scrub |
| Great Basin | Sagebrush steppe, pinyon-juniper woodland |
Ecological Roles and Adaptations
Like other mosses, E. drummondii var. obtusifolius plays several important ecological roles:
- Helps retain soil moisture and prevent erosion
entosthodon_obtusus.jpg from: https://www.korseby.net/outer/flora/bryophyta/funariaceae/index.html
- Provides habitat for micro-organisms and small invertebrates
- Pioneers disturbed habitats and rocky substrates
- Contributes to nutrient cycling
This tiny moss has adaptations that allow it to thrive in its often dry, exposed habitats. Its small size minimizes water loss, and its spores can persist in the soil until favorable growing conditions occur. The obtuse leaf tips may also help conserve moisture.
Conclusion
Entosthodon drummondii var. obtusifolius may be small, but it’s a great example of how even the tiniest organisms can have fascinating natural histories. Next time you’re out in western North America, keep an eye out for this little moss and ponder its big ecological roles. What other small but mighty plants have you encountered?