WB01343_.gif (599 bytes)

Bryophyta -3

WB01339_.gif (896 bytes)

Class  - Sphagnopsida
Diversity is LOW!

Genera = (1) Sphagnum

Species = Many

SphagOverall240.jpg (33460 bytes)

Habitat

Terrestrial<->Semiaquatic

Edges of Fresh Water Ponds & Bogs

Ecological Significance

  1. Sphagnum has enormous ecological significance in the far North where it is one of the few plants able to survive. They are circumpolar in their distribution.
  2. Perennial
  3. Fill in Bogs, Especially in Cold Temperate Regions like the Great Lakes
  4. pH  is made  Acidic -> Nutrient Leaching
  5. Acidity Inhibits Growth of other Plants & Microorganisms
  6. Leads to Species Poor Habitat
  7. This Prevents Decay

    Preserves Pollen & Other Biological Materials

    This allows the Identification of Prehistoric Plants

  8. Converts Aquatic -> Terrestrial Habitats

    There is a Sphagnum Bog on the top of Mt. Kahala. This was reputedly started when an irresponsible person knowingly dumped Sphagnum in the bog for some childish reason.

Uses

Ethnobotany

  1. Peat -> Fuel
  2. Antiseptic -> Dress Wounds

Horticulture

  1. Potting Medium
  2. Soil Conditioning

    Retains H2O
    Good Soil Aeration
    Acidifies Soil -> Release Nutrients

    Antimicrobial Action -> Prevents Diseases

WB01342_16.gif (412 bytes)