Moss Specimen

Date2007

Dimensions1 x 8.5 x 14.5 cm (3/8 x 3 3/8 x 5 11/16 in.)

Object numberHF.2012.49.25

DescriptionA large sample of dark green Fontinalis hypnoides Hartm. moss with thin, undulating branches and small, pointed leaves. Branches are yellow-green near tips, darken to brown-green in the middle, and dark green-brown at the base. Leaves are positioned alternately on the stem and are triangular in shape. On the reverse branches appear to be layered on top of each other. A small twig fragment is also present in the envelope.

Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Bryophyta
Class: Bryopsida
Order: Hypnales
Family: Fontinalaceae
Genus: Fontinalis
Species: Fontinalis hypnoides Hartm.

Narrative

Collected September 21, 2007, by Rosemary Curley and Glen Kelly in Doc's Marsh, Forest Hill Wildlife Management Area, Kings County, PEI (46°21'48.24"N, 62°31'41.0"W. Datum NAD83).

Fontinalis hypnoides Hartm., is a large, green moss which grows on rocks and under flowing water, frequently mixed with algae. Its leaves are sparse, flat in shape or sometimes gently cupped near the base and 4-7mm in length. The leaves have no costa and are arranged at three angles from the stem. Stems are slender and limp.

Geographically, Fontinalis hypnoides Hartm., can be found in North America, South America, Europe and Asia. Fontinalis hypnoides is considered rare within the Maritimes as well as on PEI.

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