Májstellátok

Májstellátok, often translated as "liverworts," are a division of non-vascular plants belonging to the Bryophyta. They are among the earliest land plants to evolve. Májstellátok typically grow in moist, shaded environments, such as on rocks, soil, and tree bark. They lack true roots, stems, and leaves, instead possessing simpler structures called rhizoids for anchorage and absorption. Their life cycle alternates between a gametophyte generation, which is the dominant and photosynthetic phase, and a sporophyte generation that produces spores for reproduction.

There are two main groups of májstellátok: leafy májstellátok and thalloid májstellátok. Leafy májstellátok resemble small, leafy plants, though their "leaves" are simple, one-cell thick structures lacking a midrib. Thalloid májstellátok have a flattened, ribbon-like body called a thallus, which can be lobed or branched. Many májstellátok reproduce asexually through gemmae, which are small clusters of cells that detach from the parent plant and grow into new individuals.

Májstellátok play a role in ecosystems by colonizing bare surfaces, contributing to soil formation, and providing habitat for small invertebrates. They are also sensitive to environmental changes, making them useful bioindicators of air and water quality. While not of significant commercial importance, some species have been studied for potential medicinal properties. Their primitive characteristics make them valuable for understanding plant evolution.