Notes on the ecology and biology of Scorpidium scorpioides (Hedw.) Limpr.

Abstract

The present paper is concerned with certain features of the growth cycle, both vegetative and reproductive, of the moss <i>Scorpidium scorpioides</i>. Some ecological factors are also discussed. Positive hygrotropism which occurs in young shoots prevents mosses from desiccation. Capsules of <i>Scorpidium scorpioides</i> are rare in Boland. <i>S. scorpioides</i> is markedly intolerant of shade and this may be a restricting factor in its competition with other plants. Experiments and literature indicate that <i>S. scorpioides</i> is indiifferent t to lime and can tolerate sites poor in calcium ions.