Sammalkasvit

Sammalkasvit, also known as mosses, are a group of non-vascular plants that belong to the Bryophyta division. They are characterized by their small size, simple structure, and lack of true roots, stems, or leaves. Mosses are found in a wide range of habitats, from tropical rainforests to polar regions, and are often the first plants to colonize disturbed or newly exposed areas.

Mosses reproduce both sexually and asexually. Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of male and female gametes, which are produced by specialized structures called antheridia and archegonia. Asexual reproduction occurs through the production of spores, which are released from the capsule-like structures called sporophytes. Mosses play a crucial role in various ecosystems, contributing to soil formation, water retention, and nutrient cycling.

There are approximately 12,000 known species of mosses, with the majority belonging to the Bryaceae family. They are often used in horticulture and aquascaping due to their aesthetic appeal and ability to thrive in various conditions. Mosses are also of interest to scientists studying plant evolution and ecology.