Derbyshire feathermoss facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Derbyshire feathermoss |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Thamnobryum
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| Species: |
angustifolium
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The Derbyshire feathermoss, also known as Thamnobryum angustifolium, is a special type of moss. It belongs to the Neckeraceae family. This tiny plant is very rare. It only grows in one specific place in Derbyshire, England.
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What is Derbyshire Feathermoss?
The Derbyshire feathermoss is a small green plant. It looks a lot like other mosses. It is a type of bryophyte. Bryophytes are simple plants like mosses and liverworts. They do not have true roots or flowers.
Why is This Moss So Special?
This moss is very unique because it is endemic to Derbyshire. This means it is found naturally nowhere else in the world! It is like a plant superhero that only lives in one small area. Because it is so rare, it is listed as critically endangered. This is the highest risk category for plants and animals.
Where Does Derbyshire Feathermoss Live?
The Derbyshire feathermoss lives in a very specific spot. It grows on a single rock face in Derbyshire, England. This area is protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). An SSSI is a special place that protects wildlife and geology. The main group of moss covers about 3 square meters. That's about the size of a small rug! There are also a few smaller groups nearby. Its natural home is usually near rivers or springs.
What Threats Does It Face?
This rare moss faces several dangers. These threats make it hard for the moss to survive.
People and Pollution
- Disturbance: People like cavers and climbers can accidentally disturb the moss. They might step on it or damage its home.
- Collection: Some plant scientists, called bryologists, study mosses. Sometimes, they might collect samples. If too many samples are taken, it can harm the small population.
- Pollution: The moss grows in a spring. If the water in this spring gets polluted, it can hurt the moss.
Weather Changes
- Drought: The moss needs water to live. During dry periods, called droughts, the moss can dry out. This is called desiccation. It makes it very hard for the moss to grow and spread.
How Do We Protect It?
Because the Derbyshire feathermoss is so rare, it has its own special plan. This is called a Biodiversity Action Plan. This plan helps protect the moss and its home. It is also on a list of the world's most threatened bryophytes. This shows how important it is to protect this tiny plant.
How to Tell It Apart
The Derbyshire feathermoss looks similar to a common moss called Thamnobryum alopecurum. But you can tell them apart! The Derbyshire feathermoss has narrower leaves on its branches. These leaves are also very toothed, like tiny saws. They have straight sides and a wide central vein. Another similar moss, T. cataractarum, has less toothed leaves but an even wider central vein.
