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NZ Plants
Trematodon suberectus
Family: Bruchiaceae
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Plants
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Shoots
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Shoot
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The embryo sporophyte is initially contained within the base of the archegonium which becomes the calyptra, visible here topped by a withered archegonial neck
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Older sporophytes differentiated into an elongating stalk (seta) and a capsule covered by a torn calyptra
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Maturing capsules
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Maturing capsule with calyptra cover
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Calyptra removed (left) to expose a capsule with the operculum lid (right)
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Operculum shed to expose the peristome with spores being released
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Peristome with spores, side view
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Peristome with spores, from above
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Erect peristome of empty capsule
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Peristome detail
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Trematodon suberectus is a small mat-forming moss with stems up to 7 mm in height. Leaves are erect-to-spreading and sheath the stem at their base then gradually taper to an elongate tip. The capsule is distinctive for its tapering, slightly curved shape with a very long basal region (capsule neck) which may even be longer than its spore-containing portion.
Widespread in New Zealand on bare, moist soil including sand, gravel, pumice and clay. It also tolerates thermally heated soil.
