Dicranum

Dicranum is a genus of mosses belonging to the family Dicranaceae. These mosses are commonly found in temperate and boreal regions worldwide, often growing in dense tufts on soil, rocks, and decaying wood. The name Dicranum comes from the Greek words "dikranon" meaning "two-horned," referring to the distinct, often two-pointed structure of the peristome teeth in the sporophyte capsule, though this feature is not always easily visible.

Plants in the genus Dicranum are typically medium to large in size, characterized by erect or ascending stems that can form extensive mats. Their leaves are usually lance-shaped, tapering to a point, and often have a strong, central midrib. The leaf margins can be serrated or entire, and they may be keeled or flat. Many species exhibit a dimorphic leaf arrangement, with upper leaves differing in size or shape from lower leaves.

Reproduction in Dicranum occurs both sexually through spores produced in sporophytes and asexually via fragmentation or specialized vegetative structures. The sporophytes are typically borne on short stalks (setae) and emerge from the top of the stem, bearing a capsule that commonly curves and nods. The genus is ecologically significant, contributing to soil formation, moisture retention, and providing habitat for small invertebrates. Identification of individual species within Dicranum often requires microscopic examination of leaf structures, sporophyte morphology, and sometimes even spore characteristics.