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Grimmia pulvinata
Grimmia pulvinata, otherwise known as grey-cushioned grimmia[3] or pulvinate dry rock moss,[4] is a bryophyte moss common in temperate climates worldwide. CharacteristicsGrimmia pulvinata grows in a small, cushion-like shape, around 1–2 centimeters tall. Its color ranges from a grey-green to an orange-yellow.[5] Its leaves are lanceolate, being broad and oval-shaped at the base and very narrow toward the tip.[6] They may show a silvery hue near the tip in some specimens. Its capsules are oval-shaped, and bend back into the leaves when the plant is dry, and stand out when it is moist.[5] HabitatGrimmia pulvinata colonizes a variety of surfaces including rocks, concrete, and tree trunks. It is tolerant of a wide range of pH levels on surfaces, allowing it to live on many types of rock.[7] However, it prefers surfaces such as old mortar and tree trunks.[8] DistributionGrimmia pulvinata is the most common species in the genus Grimmia, with a nearly worldwide distribution.[7] It is particularly common in Britain[9] and the west coast of North America.[10] It lives primarily in temperate regions, from sea level to elevations up to 9800 feet.[7] Ecological roleGrimmia pulvinata is a pioneer species, meaning it is among the first organisms to colonize habitat which has been disturbed by an event such as a forest fire.[6] Its resistance to pollution allows it to colonize urban areas such as roofs, walls, and tarmac.[5] References
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