Sphagnum Moss
Photo courtesy of Andrea Schieber.
Sphagnum is a genus of ecologically and economically important mosses (phylum Bryophyta). The genus contains approximately 135 species, but there is still much taxonomic work to be done. Sphagnum is generally found in boreal areas in the Northern Hemisphere, though some species occur in the tropics and in the Southern Hemisphere.
Sphagnum is typically associated with wet, boggy areas with acidic soil. Sphagnum can grow in small patches but is commonly observed in thick dense clumps. These clumps can grow so densely that they form a “bog mat” that floats on top of the water.
Many Sphagnum mosses are both ecologically and economically important. Ecologically speaking, Sphagnum mosses are often the dominant organism in peat bogs. They are the source of peat, which is a nutrient-rich material that forms as mosses decompose.
Live Sphagnum is used for a variety of purposes. Historically, it was used to dress wounds. More recently, it is used as a substrate for growing orchids and for decoration. In addition, Sphagnum peat is harvested and used as a soil conditioner. The sustainability of harvesting both Sphagnum moss and peat has been called into question, and bog restoration projects have begun around the world due to the connection between peatlands and global change.
The species featured in this month’s banner is Sphagnum magellanicum, which varies in color from green to pinkish green to reddish purple.
Want to learn more?
- Visit the iDigBio Portal to view specimens of the genus Sphagnum
- Learn more about Sphagnum from EOL or the Australian Bryophytes from the Australian National Herbarium
- Visit the Moss Musings blog to learn more about the role of Sphagnum in bog ecosystems
Peat bog image courtesy of Lastonein.
