Rhytidiopsis robusta – pipecleaner moss
Common Name
pipecleaner moss
Family
Hylocomiaceae
Scientific Name
Rhytidiopsis robusta
Soil Moisture Regime (SMR)
- Dry (D)
- Moderately Dry (MD)
- Medium (M)
Soil Nutrient Regime (SNR)
- Poor (P)
Video link
Image courtesy of the Royal BC Museum and Archives
Photo Gallery
General / Habitat
- Moss forming large, single-species mats
- Subalpine forest floors, sometimes occurring on logs at low elevations
Key Identifying Characteristics
- Form: Yellow to pale green, few branches, stems with small green filaments and closely-set leaves
- Leaves: Strongly curved to one side, have longitudinal pleats, and have a double-midrib that ends near mid-leaf. The leaf curve and double-midrib help distinguish it from other species.
- The moss is soft in texture and not brittle
- Sporophytes: Occasional, with asymmetric, curved capsules, red-brown when mature
External References
Sources
Douglas, G.W. et al (Editors). 1998-2002. Illustrated Flora of British Columbia, Volumes 1 to 8. B.C. Min. Environ., Lands and Parks, and B.C. Min. For., Victoria, B.C.
Pojar, J. and A. MacKinnon. 2014. Plants of Coastal British Columbia Including Washington, Oregon & Alaska. B.C. Ministry of Forestry and Lone Pine Publishing. Vancouver, B.C.