Moss, one of the earliest of Earth’s land plants, is part of the bryophyte family. Despite appearances, moss actually does have roots, stems, and tiny leaves, more properly called microphylls, which is where photosynthesis occurs.
Definition
Moss is a non-vascular plant, meaning that it has no internal system to transport water. Instead, it grows by spreading out as ground cover and usually reaches less than 8 inches in height.
Photosynthesis
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants make and store their food. With the help of a green substance called chlorophyll, the heat of the sun is combined with carbon dioxide and water and converted to sugar and starch. The process releases oxygen as a waste product.
Microphylls
Rather than true leaves, mosses have microphylls. These leaf-like structures with a single unbranched vein evolved from tiny bits of tissue found on the stems of leafless, more primitive plant forms.
Gametophytes
The gametophyte is the dominant phase in the life cycle of moss plants. This is the form of the plant most people are familiar with since it is often seen carpeting trees, rocks, and parts of the forest floor. Photosynthesis takes place in the gametophyte phase.
Sporophytes
Moss reproduces by the creation of spores held within sporophytes. These sporophytes have no photosynthetic capabilities, so they are dependent on the gametophytes for nutrition needs.
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About the Author
Monica Wachman is a former editor and writer for FishersTravelSOS, EasyRez.com and Bonsai Ireland. She has an AA degree in travel from Career Com Technical and is an avid RV buff and gardener. In 2014, she published "Mouschie and the Big White Box" about an RV trip across North America.
Photo Credits
Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Vik Nanda