Microlejeunea pusilla: The Tiny Moss with a Big Story
Introduction
When it comes to the world of mosses, Microlejeunea pusilla (Spruce) Steph. may be tiny in size, but it has a fascinating story to tell. This diminutive member of the Lejeuneaceae family, commonly known simply as
Microlejeunea, plays important ecological roles despite its small stature. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the details of this marvelous miniature moss.
Background
Microlejeunea pusilla is a species of leafy liverwort in the class Jungermanniopsida and division Marchantiophyta. The species epithet “pusilla” means very small, referring to the minute size of this moss. It was first described by the botanist Richard Spruce in 1884 and later transferred to the genus Microlejeunea by Franz Stephani in 1890.
Morphology and Identification
One of the most notable features of M. pusilla is its extremely small size. The shoots are typically only 1-3 mm long
and 0.2-0.4 mm wide. The leaves are arranged in two rows and are broadly ovate in shape, with rounded to obtuse tips. Each leaf cell contains 3-7 oil bodies, which are characteristic of the Lejeuneaceae family. Identifying M. pusilla requires careful examination under a microscope. Look for the minute size, the shape and arrangement of the leaves, and the presence of oil bodies in the leaf cells. It can be distinguished from similar species by its even smaller size and lack of underleaves.
Global Distribution and Habitat
Microlejeunea pusilla has a wide global distribution, found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world including the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Oceania. It grows as an epiphyte on the bark and leaves of trees and shrubs in moist, shaded habitats such as rainforests and cloud forests. It is often found growing with other bryophytes in mixed mats.
Ecological Roles and Adaptations
Despite its small size, M. pusilla plays important roles in its ecosystems:
Moisture retention: Like other bryophytes, it helps retain moisture in its environment
Nutrient cycling: It aids in breaking down and recycling nutrients
Microhabitats: It provides shelter and microhabitats for tiny invertebrates
M. pusilla has several adaptations that allow it to thrive in its moist, shaded habitats:
Epiphytic in moist, shaded tropical and subtropical forests
Distribution
Americas, Africa, Asia, Oceania
Conclusion
Microlejeunea pusilla may be one of the smallest mosses around, but it has an outsized importance in its ecosystems. From helping retain moisture to providing microhabitats, this tiny bryophyte plays a big role. Next time you’re in a tropical rainforest, take a moment to appreciate the miniature world of M. pusilla! What other secrets might this little moss hold?
