Bryophyter

Bryophyter, or bryophytes in English, are a group of non-vascular land plants that includes mosses (Bryophyta), liverworts (Marchantiophyta), and hornworts (Anthocerotophyta). They are among the earliest land plants and are characterized by a dominant photosynthetic gametophyte generation and a relatively simple body organization. Unlike true vascular plants, bryophytes lack xylem and phloem, and most rely on diffusion to move water and nutrients.

The typical bryophyte body consists of a thallus or small stems and leaves that lack true roots. They anchor with rhizoids and absorb water directly across the surface. The life cycle is dominated by the gametophyte, which produces sex organs: antheridia (male) and archegonia (female). Fertilization requires external water for the sperm to swim to the egg, after which a diploid sporophyte grows on or from the gametophyte. The sporophyte, often a stalk carrying a capsule, is dependent on the gametophyte for nutrients and disperses spores to begin a new generation.

Habitats are diverse but typically moist or humid, including forest floors, rocks, and wetlands. Bryophytes play important ecological roles as pioneer species, contributors to soil formation, and especially in peat-forming communities. Peatlands, dominated by Sphagnum mosses, store large amounts of carbon and influence regional hydrology. Bryophytes are also indicators of environmental conditions and are used in ecological and paleobotanical studies.

Taxonomically, bryophytes comprise three divisions: Bryophyta (mosses), Marchantiophyta (liverworts), and Anthocerotophyta (hornworts). They form a distinct, ancient lineage of land plants with significant ecological and evolutionary importance.