I saw this moss yesterday, but needed a microscope to identify it, which I only had access to today. Fissidens rigidulus is a common aquatic or semi-aquatic moss species. It grows on rock or concrete in streams and water-races. Although the species is found throughout most of the southern hemisphere, the variety Fissidens rigidulus var. rigidulus (photographed here) is only found in Australasia, whilst the other variety present in Aotearoa, Fissidens rigidulus var. pseudostrictus, is only found in Aotearoa. Fissidens are widely regarded as enjoyable mosses to identify. They’re usually not super challenging to ID, but are challenging enough to require a microscope and give you a little satisfaction when you figure them out. All Fissidens have a double-layered leaf, with a lower folded portion and a main, flat portion. These leaves clasp the stem and give the plant a distinctive “Fissidens look”. Some key features of Fissidens rigidulus var. rigidulus are the strong borders to the leaves, and the way the leaves curl when dry.
Cuteness: 7/10
Distinctiveness: 8/10
LMR: 7/10

Posted on October 24, 2024 05:18 AM by fuligogirl