Bryophytes Collection (#2)

Plant group specimens, artwork
Plant group specimens. Preserved specimens of four plant groups

Mosses after forest fire
Mosses growing one year after a forest fire. At left is Ceratodon purpureus (yellow), while at right is Polytrichum formosum (green)

Plant regrowth after forest fire
Plant regrowth one year after a forest fire. The plants and fungi seen here include Pholiota highlandensis mushrooms (lower left), the common liverwort (Marchantia polymorpha, white-green, centre)

Moss stems, light micrograph. Transverse section through stems of a cord moss (Polytrichum commune). The outside of the stems, the epidermis, is made up of thick-walled cells

Liverwort spore capsule, light micrograph. Longitudinal section through the thallus and sporangium of a liverwort (Jungammania sp.) The sporangium (spore capsule)

Moss reproductive parts, light micrograph. Longitudinal section through the antheridial cup (male reproductive parts) of a cord moss (Polytrichum commure)

Liverwort spore elaters, light micrograph. Transverse section through the sporangium of a liverwort (Pellia epiphylla). This is the basal portion of the sporangium

Moss spore capsule, light micrograph
Moss spore capsule, polarised light micrograph. Longitudinal section through a spore capsule from a fire moss (Funaria hygrometrica)

Liverwort spores, light micrograph. Transverse section through the sporangium of a liverwort (Pellia epiphylla). Part of the sporangiums outer wall is at left

Moss plants, close-up. Mosses (phylum Bryophyta) are small plants that lack true roots, woody tissue and flowers. They grow in damp places worldwide

Bog moss, overhead view
Bog moss (Sphagnum sp.) overhead view. Moss is a non-vascular plant. Sphagnum mosses grow in moist places, such as bogs and ponds, most particularly in acid conditions

Breutelia pendula moss
Breutelia pendula. A forest moss. New Zealand

Moss covered tree stump

Male shoot of cord moss. Light micrograph of the top of a male shoot of the cord moss (Polytrichum commune). Antheridia (purple stain) are the male reproductive organs produce male gametes

Peat mosses (Sphagnum sp. )
Peat mosses (Sphagnum sp.) in frost. Photographed in the New Forest, UK, in November

Peat moss (Sphagnum sp. )
Peat moss (Sphagnum sp.) on a rock (centre) amongst marsh hair moss (Polytrichum commune), other mosses, sedges and grasses. Photographed in Cairngorms National Park, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, UK

Ferns and mosses on a stone wall. Photographed near Loch Duich in north west Scotland

Moss spore capsules, one bearing a droplet of water. Mosses grow on rocks, walls and trees. The plants grow to 1-5cm tall

Moss-covered truck

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"Bryophytes: Nature's Carpet of Life" Discover the enchanting world of bryophytes, small but mighty plants that thrive in diverse environments across the globe. From the serene Avalanche Creek in Glacier National Park, Montana USA to the ancient Oak woodland on Dartmoor, these resilient organisms find their place amidst breathtaking landscapes. In Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve, Deeside, witness a stunning display as mosses and lichens gracefully cover boulders in a granite drystone wall. Their intricate patterns create an awe-inspiring tapestry that speaks volumes about nature's artistry. Zooming closer into this miniature realm, explore the fascinating structure of moss capsules like Homalothecium sericeum through scanning electron microscopy (SEM). These tiny wonders hold within them the potential for new life and growth. The vibrant green hues of moss leaves come alive under false color SEM imaging. Such captivating visuals remind us of the beauty hidden within even the tiniest corners of our natural world. Venturing further north to Inverness-shire, Scotland UK, encounter Bartrimia pomiformis or Apple moss with its delicate spore capsules. This species showcases nature's ability to adapt and flourish even in harsh climates. Transport yourself back in time with Muscinae lithographs from 1899-1904. These colorful illustrations capture both scientific accuracy and artistic expression while showcasing various bryophyte species' diversity. Waterfalls become living canvases for Cratoneuron commutatum and Bryum ventricosum as they grow abundantly alongside rushing streams. The juxtaposition between cascading water and lush greenery creates a mesmerizing sight that soothes both mind and soul. Journeying to Flow Country in Sutherland Highlands, Scotland reveals another marvel – Sphagnum moss up close. Its intricate structures play a vital role in maintaining wetland ecosystems by retaining water and providing a habitat for countless organisms.