Pottiales

Wall - rotation -moss ( Tortula muralis )

The Pottiales are an order of mosses. The globally widespread genus comprises about 1500 species in 5 families. Many of the species live in dry conditions.

Features

In the mosses of this order is almost exclusively akrokarpe mosses. The stems are usually erect and sparsely branched. The leaves are mostly ovate or spatulate. The cells of the leaf blade are usually roundish and often strongly papillose. The lower cells are deducted from the upper and hyaline ( = water-white, transparent). A midrib is usually formed present and strong.

The capsule is upright and roundish to cylindrical. The peristome consists of 16 teeth, but may be absent.

Distribution and occurrence

The representatives of the Pottiales distinguished rather by their preference for light- rich and often dry locations. They are found worldwide and live mostly terrestrial.

System

The Pottiales be divided into five families, which is by far the largest family Pottiaceae:

• Order Pottiales Family Pottiaceae 1425 species worldwide
• Family Ephemeraceae, 38 species, nearly worldwide
• Hypodontiaceae family, 2 styles, southern Africa
• Family Pleurophascaceae, 3 kinds, Australasia
• Serpotortellaceae family, 2 styles, epiphytic, Madagascar and Reunion