FAMILY: Mniaceae

HABITAT: This species can be found in many varying habitats, such as: rather moist soils or humus, decayed logs and stumps, on the bark at the base of trees, and on rocks.

DISTRIBUTIONS:
Globally: This species is commonly found across North America.
Ohio: Mnium cuspidatum can be found all throughout the state and is found in over 60% of the counties, including Athens.

DISTINGUISHABLE CHARACTERISTICS: This particular species lacks a common name, but is commonly interchanged with Plagiomnium cuspidatum. Also, it can be identified by some distinguishing characteristics. In the gametophyte, the leaves are obovate, they crisp when they are dry, and they are toothed only above the middle. In the sporophyte, the seta is usually long with the capsule extended at an angle and the peristome is double and well developed.

Written by John Streb
May 2001