Exploring the Hidden World of Breutelia Moss: A Fascinating Plant with Ecological Significance
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Exploring the Fascinating World of Breutelia eugeniae Ångstr. Moss
Introduction
Mosses are often overlooked, but they play crucial roles in ecosystems around the world. One particularly interesting species is Breutelia eugeniae Ångstr., a moss in the Bartramiaceae family. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the details of this fascinating plant, from its morphology to its ecological importance. Get ready to discover the hidden wonders of Breutelia moss!
Background
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Breutelia eugeniae Ångstr. is a species of moss first described by Swedish botanist Johan Ångström in 1876. It belongs to the Bryophyta division and Bryopsida class. The Bartramiaceae family, to which Breutelia belongs, contains around 400 species found worldwide.
Morphology and Identification
Breutelia eugeniae forms loose tufts or mats. The stems are 5-10 cm long
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and sparsely branched. Leaves are lanceolate, gradually tapering to a fine point, and have toothed margins. The leaf midrib extends to the tip. Capsules are pear-shaped and hang down on long stalks called setae.
Global Distribution and Habitat
This moss has a wide distribution, found in tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, Africa, and Asia. It grows on soil, rocks, and tree trunks in moist, shady habitats like cloud forests and rainforests at elevations from sea level to 3000 meters.
Ecological Roles and Adaptations
Like other mosses, Breutelia plays important roles in its ecosystems:
- Helps retain moisture and prevent soil erosion
- Provides habitat for micro-organisms and small invertebrates
- Pioneers disturbed sites and aids in succession
Breutelia has adaptations that allow it to thrive in its moist, shady habitats:
- Leaves have a network of thin-walled water-conducting cells
- Rhizoids anchor the plant and absorb water and nutrients
- Reproduces via spores that are dispersed by wind
image from: https://mossclerks.co.uk/products/gold-headed-moss-breutelia
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image from: https://www.thebryophytanursery.com/listing/1028589202/breutelia-chrysocoma-golden-head-moss
image from: https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/272667-Breutelia
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| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Stem length | 5-10 cm |
| Leaf shape | Lanceolate |
| Leaf margin | Toothed |
| Capsule shape | Pear-shaped |
| Habitat | Moist, shady sites |
| Elevation range | 0-3000 m |
| Geographic distribution | Tropical & subtropical Americas, Africa, Asia |
Conclusion
Breutelia eugeniae Ångstr. is a prime example of how even tiny, inconspicuous organisms like mosses lead fascinating lives and play essential ecological roles. Next time you’re in a tropical forest, take a closer look – you might just spot this amazing moss! What other secrets of the bryophyte world are waiting to be uncovered?
