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Exploring the World of Atractylocarpus brasiliensis: A Fascinating Moss

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f4d24944f6f5b83697d192ff67ab055c84a286c0 from: https://identify.plantnet.org/fr/the-plant-list/species/Corymbia intermedia (F.Muell. ex R.T.Baker) K.D.Hill & L.A.S.Johnson/data

Exploring the Fascinating World of Atractylocarpus brasiliensis Moss

Introduction

Mosses are some of the most ancient and resilient plants on Earth, with over 12,000 species found across the globe. One particularly interesting moss is Atractylocarpus brasiliensis (Müll.Hal.) R.S.Williams, a member of the Leucobryaceae family. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the unique characteristics and ecology of this fascinating bryophyte.

Background

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46129950261_4ccedd1b51_z.jpg from: https://www.flickriver.com/photos/adaduitokla/46129950261/

Atractylocarpus brasiliensis is a species of moss first described by German botanist Carl Müller in 1879 under the name Leucobryum brasiliense. It was later reclassified into the genus Atractylocarpus by American botanist Robert Statham Williams in 1913. This moss is part of the Bryophyta division and Bryopsida class.

Morphology and Identification

Atractylocarpus brasiliensis forms dense, cushion-like tufts that are typically yellowish-green in color. The individual stems can reach 2-4 cm in height. The leaves are lanceolate in shape, 3-5 mm long, and have a thick, spongy texture due to the presence of hyaline cells that help retain water.

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45218580695_fda0b103bd_b.jpg from: https://www.flickr.com/photos/adaduitokla/45218580695/

One key identifying feature of A. brasiliensis is the presence of a long, hyaline awn at the leaf tip, which can be up to 1 mm in length. The leaf margins are entire and the costa (midrib) is broad

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50967177958_e0704ca60c_b.jpg from: https://www.flickr.com/photos/47945928@N02/50967177958

and occupies most of the leaf width. Sporophytes are rarely produced, but when present, the seta (stalk) is reddish and the capsule is cylindrical.

Global Distribution and Habitat

Atractylocarpus brasiliensis is

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50923345617_33e9d1580e_b.jpg from: https://www.flickr.com/photos/47945928@N02/50923345617/

native to South America, with confirmed occurrences in Brazil, Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru

Figura-14-Ptychomnion-cygnisetum-Muell-Hal-Kindb-a-Aspecto-geral-do-gametofito.png

Figura-14-Ptychomnion-cygnisetum-Muell-Hal-Kindb-a-Aspecto-geral-do-gametofito.png from: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Figura-14-Ptychomnion-cygnisetum-Muell-Hal-Kindb-a-Aspecto-geral-do-gametofito_fig5_262547004

. It typically grows on tree trunks, branches, and decaying logs in humid montane forests at elevations between 1000-3000 meters

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Calyptrochaeta-remotifolia-MuellHal-ZIwats-BCTan-Touw-A-B-Sterile_Q640.jpg from: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Calyptrochaeta-remotifolia-MuellHal-ZIwats-BCTan-Touw-A-B-Sterile_fig1_311527417

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This moss prefers shaded, moist habitats

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Moss-Common.jpeg from: https://www.inhf.org/blog/blog/nature-walk-common-moss/

with high humidity and moderate temperatures. It often forms extensive mats on its substrate, intermingling with other bryophytes and lichens.

Ecological Roles and Adaptations

Like many other mosses, Atractylocarpus brasiliensis plays important ecological roles in its native habitats:

Atractylocarpus brasiliensis has several adaptations that allow it to thrive in its humid forest habitats:

Conclusion

Atractylocarpus brasiliensis is a prime example of the incredible diversity and resilience of mosses. From its unique morphology to its ecological roles in South American montane forests, this small but mighty plant reminds us to appreciate the wonders of the natural world, even at the smallest scales. The next time you’re walking through a humid forest, take a closer look – you might just spot a patch of Atractylocarpus thriving on a tree trunk!

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