Story: Mosses

Structure of a moss leaf

Structure of a moss leaf

Most moss leaves are very simple and consist of a single layer of photosynthetic cells. Water and gases from outside pass easily into the cells. This moss, Distichophyllum kraussei, has elongated cells on its leaf margin and a central thickening, known as a nerve, that supports the leaf.

Using this item

Private collection
Photograph by Jessica Beever

This item has been provided for private study purposes (such as school projects, family and local history research) and any published reproduction (print or electronic) may infringe copyright law. It is the responsibility of the user of any material to obtain clearance from the copyright holder.

All images & media in this story

How to cite this page:

Maggy Wassilieff, 'Mosses - Life cycle and habitat', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/10646/structure-of-a-moss-leaf (accessed 23 April 2024)

Story by Maggy Wassilieff, published 24 Sep 2007