answersLogoWhite

0

Moss and certain other families of plants such as ferns (pteridophytes) are very old in evolutionary terms, and need moist environments both to survive and to reproduce.

More 'recent' or 'modern' plants have developed waxy cuticles and different internal structures and cell walls to stop dehydration. And they have also developed pollen which allows for fertilisation by wind transfer, insects, etc.

Older families of plants are dependent on water not only because they dehydrate easily due to their structure, but because they have a complex lifecycle which involves fertilisation of female plants by male plants. This is acheived by the transfer of spermatophyte cells released by the male which swim through a film of water to the female. The female then develops of spores in the fruiting body (i.e. the sticky-up bit you sometimes see on moss) of the female moss which are released to grow into new moss plants.

So without a moist environment, the moss dehydrates and can die, (although some species can survive without water for a long time, there are even desert mosses!), but definitely need water to reproduce.

Matt

User Avatar

Wiki User

16y ago

What else can I help you with?

Related Questions

Is moss a mold?

Mosses are primitive plants belonging to class Bryopsida.Moss cover patches of forest floor in damp shady places


What is a moss' habitat?

Moss is found in damp places on rocks, trees, on the ground, etc.


Can moss grow without sunlight?

Yes, moss can grow without direct sunlight, as it can thrive in shaded or damp environments.


Why do moss plants grow best in damp areas lsuch as the floor of a forest?

Because mosses require water for their motile gametes and also being very delicate damp areas are best for growth


How do you rid plants of moss?

Improvement of air, light and moisture conditions describes the way to rid plants of moss. Mosses (Bryophyta plant division) grow on damp, quiet, shaded bark, rocks, soil and water. Pruning canopies, relocating potted plants and staggering, not clumping, plants to increase circulation and sunlight tends to discourage mosses from damp, quiet, shady habitats.


Where does moss live?

Moss can grow in a variety of habitats including damp forests, wetlands, rocks, and even urban environments. They are commonly found in shaded, moist areas with sufficient moisture levels for growth. Moss can also be found on tree bark, rocks, and in between cracks on sidewalks.


How do you grow moss plants?

by watering it


Do new plants grow from moss?

NO


Would you expect to find moss plant growing where there is little or no water present?

No, moss plants thrive in damp and moist environments where there is plenty of water available. They require a consistent water supply to survive and grow. If there is little to no water present, you would not expect to find moss plants thriving in that location.


How does moss moss grow?

Like any other plants, it requires nutrients and moistness to grow.


How can I effectively grow moss outside?

To effectively grow moss outside, provide a damp and shaded environment with indirect sunlight. Keep the area free of debris and competition from other plants. Water regularly to maintain moisture levels and avoid direct sunlight to prevent drying out.


Can plants grow without moss?

yes