Bryum argenteum Hedw.

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 : 33

* Bryum argenteum Hedw. [ Bryaceae ]

Description and iconography

Ochyra et al. (2008).

Distribution and habitat

Bryum argenteum has a cosmopolitan distribution, often associated with disturbed sites. In Antarctica, this species has been reported in maritime and continental areas, growing mainly in open sites in drainage areas and meltwater puddles; it also grows in places protected by rocks or recesses in the ground ( Ochyra et al. 2008). In the study area, it was found growing on soil protected by rocks, exposed soil and soil associated with waterfowl nests. Gametophytes were found on the plateau, the slope and the coast. It was occasionally found growing alone, although usually it grew together with other bryophytes.

Comments

Bryum argenteum is distinguished from other species of the genus by having small gametophytes, being silvery and julaceous in appearance and presenting hyaline apical cells ( Sharp et al. 1994).