Monotiales

Monotiales is a small order of mosses, belonging to the class Bryopsida. This taxonomic group is characterized by a distinct set of morphological and reproductive features that differentiate it from other moss orders. The sporophytes, which are the reproductive structures, typically exhibit a cleistocarpous capsule, meaning it remains closed and does not split open to release spores. Instead, the capsule dehisces irregularly or is consumed by the calyptra, a protective hood. The peristome, a fringe of teeth around the mouth of the capsule in many mosses, is absent in Monotiales.

The leaves of Monotiales mosses are usually simple, entire, and arranged in a spiral. The cells of the leaves are often thick-walled. The gametophyte, the dominant generation in the moss life cycle, can be either erect or creeping. Vegetative reproduction, through fragmentation or specialized structures like gemmae, is also common within this order.

This order contains only one family, Monotiaceae, and this family contains a single genus, Monotium. The genus Monotium is known for its unusual sporophyte development. Currently, very few species are recognized within Monotiales, and their distribution is relatively limited, often found in specific ecological niches. Research into the evolutionary relationships and ecological significance of Monotiales continues to be an area of interest for bryologists.