MOSS

Moss 

Small non-vascular plants (Bryophyta).

Highly resilient, pioneer species in extreme habitats (Antarctica, deserts, volcanic fields).

Occur worldwide except salt water; prefer moist, shady sites.

Example: Schistostega pennata (dragon’s gold).

Environmental Significance

Natural sponges → absorb water, maintain soil moisture.

Stabilise soil and prevent erosion.

Regulate ground temperature (protect roots; slow ice thaw).

Enable ecosystem formation in barren areas.

Support biodiversity via microhabitats.

Bioindicators for heavy metals, nitrogen, acidic deposition.

News Highlight

Moss spores survived 9 months in space outside ISS.

80% reproduced after returning to Earth.

Shows extreme resilience; potential for space ecology and future extraterrestrial habitat support.