Oligotrichum-aligerum-Mitt-A-Habit-moist-B-Male-plant-with-perigonial-leaves-C_Q640.jpg

Oligotrichum-aligerum-Mitt-A-Habit-moist-B-Male-plant-with-perigonial-leaves-C_Q640.jpg from: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Oligotrichum-aligerum-Mitt-A-Habit-moist-B-Male-plant-with-perigonial-leaves-C_fig3_326282845

Exploring the Fascinating World of Oligotrichum aligerum Moss

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11061911173_ecda0a575a_z.jpg from: https://www.flickr.com/photos/36846029@N06/11061911173/

Introduction

Mosses are small but mighty plants that play crucial roles in ecosystems around the world. One particularly interesting species is Oligotrichum aligerum Mitt., a moss in the Polytrichaceae family. Also known simply as Oligotrichum, this moss has some unique features that make it stand out. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the details of Oligotrichum aligerum and explore what makes it so fascinating.

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medium.jpg from: https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/156690-Oligotrichum

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Oligotrichum-semilamellatum-Hookf-Mitt-A-Habit-moist-B-Perichaetial-leaf-in.png from: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Oligotrichum-semilamellatum-Hookf-Mitt-A-Habit-moist-B-Perichaetial-leaf-in_fig8_326282845

Background

Oligotrichum aligerum is a species of moss in the Polytrichopsida class of Bryophyta (mosses). The Polytrichaceae family contains some of the most complex and evolutionarily advanced mosses. Oligotrichum gets its name from the Greek words “oligos” meaning few and “trichos” meaning hair, referring to the small number of hairs on the calyptra (the cap covering the capsule).

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93-D12%2B1516311854.JPG from: https://v3.boldsystems.org/index.php/Taxbrowser_Taxonpage?taxid=411114

Morphology and Identification

Oligotrichum aligerum forms small tufts or cushions, typically

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859852.jpg from: https://www.bio-forum.pl/messages/3280/859850.html

1-3 cm tall. The leaves are lanceolate (lance-shaped) and have toothed margins near the tip. A key identifying feature is the reddish-brown, cylindrical capsule that emerges on a tall

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small-hair-moss.jpg from: https://evstnaturalhistory.wordpress.com/2011/05/24/832/

seta (stalk). The capsule has a small peristome (ring of teeth) and is covered by a hairy calyptra when young.

Global Distribution and Habitat

Oligotrichum aligerum has a wide distribution, found in many parts of Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. It typically grows on exposed, acidic soils such as clay banks, road cuts, and disturbed areas. It can also be found in rock crevices and on rotting logs in forests.

Ecological Roles and Adaptations

Like other mosses, Oligotrichum plays important roles in its ecosystem:

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Oligotrichum-aligerum-lamellae-web-400×300.jpg from: https://blogs.ubc.ca/biology321/?page_id=2158

  • Erosion control: The dense tufts help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
  • Water retention: Moss cushions absorb and retain water, regulating moisture in the environment.
  • Nutrient cycling: As mosses decompose, they release nutrients back into the soil.
  • Habitat for microorganisms: The spaces between moss plants provide habitat for diverse microorganisms and invertebrates.

Oligotrichum has adaptations that allow it to thrive in its preferred habitats:

Conclusion

Oligotrichum aligerum may be small, but it is a remarkable and important plant. From its unique morphology to its ecological roles, this mighty moss deserves appreciation. Next time you’re out in nature, take a closer look – you might just spot some Oligotrichum making its mark on the world. What other small wonders of nature have you discovered?

Oligotrichum-crossidioides-PCChen-TLWan-ex-WXXu-RLXiong-A-Habit-moist_Q320.jpg

Oligotrichum-crossidioides-PCChen-TLWan-ex-WXXu-RLXiong-A-Habit-moist_Q320.jpg from: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Distribution-of-Oligotrichum-crossidioides-PCChen-TLWan-ex-WXXu-RLXiong-in_fig2_326282845