Classification and Physical Appearance
Classification
Common Name: Arctic Moss
Scientific Name: Calliergon giganteum
Kingdom: Plants
Phylum: Bryophytes
Genus: Calliergon
Species: Giganteum
Physical Description
High amount of leaves on stem
Does not have flowers
Small, slow growing (approximately 1 cm per year)
Approximately 15-20 cm in total height
Rhizoids, instead of roots
Lives approximately 7 years
Brown appearance
Closely formed branches
Native Continent
Like many other plants in tundra, the arctic moss is not native to any specific continent. They grow mainly in the arctic tundra in Siberia, northern hemisphere, and other places where there is a very cold environment with strong winds up to 100 miles per hour. The arctic moss is an aquatic plant found growing on the bottom of tundra lake beds, and in and around bogs fens.
Adaptations that Allow for Success
In the tundra biome, there are no deep root systems because there is permanently frozen soil (permafrost) prevents plants’ roots to continue growing longer and thicker. Permafrost may also cause ground collapsing and loss of soil. Therefore, the arctic moss have rhizoids (tiny rootlets) instead of roots. They have tiny leaves, only around one cell thick, which helps them adapt to the fact that there is not much nutrients for plants to create photosynthesis. Throughout time its adapted extremely well to the tundra environment. When it isn’t growing, the leaves store nutrients so that when spring re-arrives, new leaves are prepared to grow quickly. Having the capability to survive underwater, allows arctic moss to avoid strong winds and cold air. Scientists have also believed that due to the short growing seasons and low temperatures, arctic moss have adapted to live longer and grow slower.
Reproduction and Development
The arctic moss reproduce by asexual budding. This may occur in two different ways – by growing shoots or releasing spores (releasing single-cells). If the plants release spores, the spores need to be wet in order to survive.
Left: A diagram of the reproduction of a moss.
Interesting Relationships (interdependence, symbiosis, economical significance)
The arctic moss does not help other organism benefit much. An interesting Commensalism discovered is that they spread and cover the ground while growing which warms up the soil for various other plants to grow. However, the arctic moss may turn frozen over time. It is also eaten by many migratory animals like birds.