A pleurocarp is a type of growth form found in certain groups of plants, especially mosses, liverworts, and some fungi. It refers to the characteristic of the plant's growth habit where the branches or shoots arise laterally from the stem, giving a sprawling or mat-like appearance.
The term "pleurocarp" is derived from the Greek words "pleura" meaning "side" and "karpos" meaning "fruit." This name accurately describes the positioning of the reproductive structures, such as sporophytes or capsules, which are typically borne at the sides of the plant's branches.
In mosses, pleurocarpous species are distinct from acrocarpous species. While acrocarpous mosses have an upright growth habit and produce their capsules at the tip of the stem, pleurocarpous mosses often lack an obvious main stem and have a prostrate or creeping growth habit. Their branches arise from the side of the stem and are often heavily branched, resulting in a dense carpet-like structure.
Pleurocarpous plants are typically found in moist habitats, such as rainforests, wetlands, or along streams and rivers. Their low-growing and mat-like structure allows them to efficiently capture water and nutrients from the environment, facilitating their survival in such habitats.
Overall, the term "pleurocarp" describes a growth habit characterized by the lateral development of branches or shoots in a sprawling or mat-like form. This growth strategy is especially observed among mosses, liverworts, and certain fungi, enabling them to adapt and thrive in moist environments.
