*close-up-of-australian-tortula-moss-sporophytes-with-capsules-after-D9NN75.jpg from: https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo/tortula-moss.html*

Exploring the Fascinating World of Tortula obtusissima Moss

Mosses

*sy_obtusissima.jpg from: https://admissions.wnmu.edu/academic/nspages/gilaflora/syntrichia_obtusissima.html*

are small but mighty plants that play important roles in ecosystems around the world. Today, we’ll take a closer look at one particularly interesting species: Tortula obtusissima (Müll.Hal.) Mitt., a moss in the Pottiaceae family.

Background on Tortula Mosses

The genus Tortula contains over 100 species of mosses found on every continent except Antarctica. These tiny plants are part of the Bryophyta division and Bryopsida class. Tortula mosses often grow in tufts or cushions on soil, rocks, trees, and man-made surfaces.

Morphology and Identification of T. obtusissima

T. obtusissima forms small, dense tufts that are yellow-green to

*Tortula_ruralis_600.jpeg from: https://sagebud.com/tortula-moss-tortula-ruralis/*

olive-green in color. The individual plants are only 2-8 mm tall

*Tortula_subulata_600.jpeg from: https://sagebud.com/search.php?query=tortula*

. Key identifying features include:

Oblong-ovate leaves that are broadly rounded or obtuse at the tips
Leaves have strongly recurved margins
Costa (midrib) ends below the leaf apex
Spore capsules are cylindrical and slightly curved

wal-s-m-1-1_1.jpg from: https://www.fredswildflowers.com/tortula.html

Global Distribution and Habitat

This moss has a widespread distribution, being found in:

Europe, from Scandinavia to the Mediterranean
North America, in the western U.S. and Mexico

93766_orig_0.jpg from: https://idfg.idaho.gov/species/taxa/33411
South America, in the Andes mountains
Africa, in eastern and southern regions
Australia and New Zealand

It typically grows on exposed calcareous rocks and soil, often in dry, sunny locations from lowlands to montane elevations.

Ecological Roles and Adaptations

Like other mosses, T. obtusissima plays several important roles in its habitats:

Helps retain moisture and prevent soil erosion
Provides shelter and food for micro-organisms and invertebrates
Pioneers the colonization of bare substrates

This species is well-adapted to dry, calcium-rich environments. The hair-points on its leaves help reflect excess light and collect moisture from fog and dew. Its thick cell walls allow it to withstand desiccation.

*16083595bb6b5297d4932aee5f359826.jpg from: https://openmuseum.tw/muse/digi_object/2355523fe7d6b11d4b7a8ac495911fd7*

*wal-s-m-3-1.jpg from: https://www.fredswildflowers.com/pottiaceae.html*

Characteristic	Description
Height	2-8 mm
Leaf shape	Oblong-ovate
Leaf tip	Broadly rounded or obtuse
Leaf margins	Strongly recurved
Costa	Ends below leaf apex
Capsule shape	Cylindrical, slightly curved

Conclusion