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About SPU
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Water System
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Cedar and Tolt Watersheds
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Cedar River Biodiversity
Mosses, Lichens and Fungi
Mosses and Liverworts
Much of what we know about the watershed’s mosses and liverworts comes from a 2006 survey by Dr. David Wagner that documented species (PDF) found here. It was conducted as part of a vegetation monitoring program for the 700 Road Forest Habitat Restoration Project. (See Wagner Report (PDF)) Mosses and liverworts are plants that lack roots and specialized structures for carrying water and minerals through their bodies.
Martin Hutten has recently conducted a broad sampling of mosses and liverworts in the watershed. Results will be posted when they are available.
In general, the stair-step moss (Hylocomium splendens) and the gooseneck moss (Rhytidiadelphus loreus) are among the most common mosses found on forest floors. Isothecium moss (Isothecium stoloniferum) is one of the most common mosses on tree branches and trunks (above the base), where it forms long hair-like strands. Sphagnum mosses are usually found in wetlands growing on organic soils.
Lichens
Although little is known about the watershed’s lichens (primitive organisms combining an alga and a fungus), numerous lichen species (PDF) were identified during a survey of mosses and liverworts conducted in 2006 by Dr. David Wagner.
Additional lichen surveys in the watershed have recently been conducted by Dr. Katie Glew, University of Washington Herbarium. New information will be posted as it becomes available.
Fungi
Fungi—such as molds and mushrooms—are neither plant nor animal. Although fungi have a form that is superficially plant-like, they are heterotrophs (like animals), obtaining their energy from external sources rather than photosynthesis.
No fungal diversity surveys have yet been undertaken in the watershed. However, scientific research involving fungi have been conducted, including a study by Cline et al. (2005) that includes a list of fungi species observed in the watershed.
New information will be posted as anticipated surveys are completed.
Reports & Citations
Contact Information
Contact clay.antieau@seattle.gov
Related Links
- • Rock Formations in the Cedar River Watershed provide an inviting habitat for moss and lichen
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