Contents
Description
Dicranaceae is a family of mosses that contains over 500 species. They are commonly found in temperate and tropical regions, growing in a variety of habitats such as forests, wetlands, and rocky outcrops. The name Dicranaceae is derived from the Greek word “dikranos,” which means “two-pronged,” referring to the branched appearance of the mosses in this family.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Bryophyta |
| Class | Bryopsida |
| Order | Dicranales |
| Family | Dicranaceae |
| Genus | Dicranum |
Appearance
Dicranaceae mosses have a distinctive appearance with feather-like branches that grow upward from the stem. The branches are usually two-pronged and symmetrical, giving them a fork-like appearance. The leaves are simple and lance-shaped, with a pointed tip and entire margins. They are typically green in color, but can also be brown or red. The sporophyte capsule is cylindrical and usually erect, with a lid that falls off to release the spores.
Care Guide
Dicranaceae mosses are low maintenance and easy to care for. Here are some tips for their care:- Water: Keep the mosses moist by misting them regularly or placing them in a tray of water. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Dicranaceae mosses do not require fertilization, but you can add a small amount of diluted liquid fertilizer to the water once a month during the growing season.- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter, such as peat moss or compost.- Sunlight: Dicranaceae mosses can tolerate low to moderate light levels, but avoid direct sunlight as this can dry out the mosses.- Hardiness Zones: Dicranaceae mosses can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dicranaceae mosses are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can be affected by the following:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can suck the sap from the mosses, causing them to wilt and die. Treat with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Fungal diseases: Dicranaceae mosses can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew or rust. Remove any affected plant parts and treat with a fungicide.- Overwatering: Excessive moisture can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the mosses. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Habitat
Dicranaceae mosses are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, wetlands, and rocky outcrops. They prefer moist environments and can grow in both sunny and shady locations. Some species are adapted to extreme temperatures and can survive in arctic or alpine regions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Dicranaceae mosses?
A: You should water your mosses regularly to keep them moist, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. A good rule of thumb is to mist them once a day or place them in a tray of water for a few hours once a week.
Q: Can Dicranaceae mosses grow indoors?
A: Yes, Dicranaceae mosses can be grown indoors as long as they receive adequate light and moisture. They are ideal for terrariums or as a decorative accent in a shady corner.
Q: How do I propagate Dicranaceae mosses?
A: Dicranaceae mosses can be propagated by dividing the clumps or by taking stem cuttings and replanting them in new soil. Make sure to keep the soil moist and avoid direct sunlight until the new growth is established.
Q: What is the lifespan of Dicranaceae mosses?
A: Dicranaceae mosses can live for several years under the right conditions. With proper care, they can continue to grow and thrive for many seasons.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the Dicranales order:- Campylopus spp.- Ceratodon purpureus- Didymodon spp.- Leptodictyum riparium- Pohlia spp.
References
– Goffinet, B., & Shaw, A. J. (2009). Bryophyte biology. Cambridge University Press.- Buck, W. R. (2004). Pleurocarpous mosses of the West Indies. Memoirs of the New York Botanical Garden, 89, 1-122.- Lawton, E. (1971). Moss flora of the Pacific Northwest. Hattori Botanical Laboratory.
