Bryum pallescens, (Schleich. ex Schwagr.) J. R. Spence

Cottet, Agustina Celeste, Messuti, María Inés, Ansaldo, Martín & Dopchiz, Laura Patricia, 2025, Mosses (Bryophyta) of the north-western region of Marambio (Seymour) Island, Antarctica, Antarctic Science (Cambridge, England) 37 (1), pp. 31-38 : 34-35

* Ptychostomum pallescens (Schleich. ex Schwägr.) J.R. Spence [ Bryaceae ]

Description and iconography

Ochyra et al. (2008).

Distribution and habitat

A bipolar species, with some intermediate occurrences, it can be found in dry or wet areas, sheltered or open sites, on clayey, sandy or rocky soil, gravel, humus or in rock crevices ( Ochyra et al. 2008). In the study area, representatives of P. pallescens were found growing on soil in exposed sites. This species is found only in the coastal region of the island, growing alone or with other bryophytes.

Comments

This species, despite usually being sterile in Antarctica, is distinguished from its congeners by the twisting of its leaves into a spiral when dry. In addition, it has oblong lanceolate leaves with an excurrent costa on a long hair; and lamina cells are

small rhomboid to oblong rhomboid cells, generally less than three times as long as they are wide ( Ochyra et al. 2008).