POLYTRICHUM Meaning and
Definition
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Polytrichum is a genus of mosses belonging to the family Polytrichaceae, commonly known as haircap mosses. These mosses are characterized by tall, robust, and erect stems that can reach heights of up to 30 centimeters. The name "polytrichum" is derived from the Greek words "polys" meaning many and "thrix" meaning hair, referring to the numerous hair-like leaves that cover the stems.
The leaves of polytrichum mosses are arranged in spiral patterns around the stems, and they possess a unique structure and function. They have two distinct types of cells: elongated, green cells on the upper surface that carry out photosynthesis, and long, colorless cells on the lower surface that serve as water-conducting tissues. These anatomical features allow polytrichum mosses to efficiently capture sunlight and absorb water from their surroundings.
Polytrichum mosses are widely distributed across various habitats globally, from lowland to alpine regions. They often colonize disturbed areas, such as bare soils and tree stumps, where their dense and extensive moss carpets contribute to soil stabilization and ecological succession. In addition to their ecological importance, haircap mosses also have traditional medicinal uses in different cultures, including treating wounds, digestive disorders, and respiratory ailments.
In conclusion, polytrichum refers to a group of mosses that have tall, hair-like leaves arranged in spirals around their stems. They play a crucial ecological role in stabilizing soils and have various traditional medicinal applications.
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Hair-cap, golden maidenhair, golden moss, the entire plant of Polytrichum commune, P. juniperinum, and other species of P.; diuretic and astringent; employed in bronchitis and menorrhagia.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for POLYTRICHUM
- polytrich5m
- polytrichem
- polytrichqm
- polytrichwm
- polytrichtm
- polytrichue
- polytrichui
- polytrichuo
- polytrichul
- po lytrichum
- pol ytrichum
- poly trichum
- polyt richum
- polytr ichum
- polytri chum
- polytric hum
- polytrich um
- polytrichu m
Etymology of POLYTRICHUM
The word "Polytrichum" has its etymology rooted in Greek. It is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "poly", meaning "many" or "much", and "trichos", meaning "hair". The term is used as the genus name for a group of mosses known as the Haircap mosses, which have numerous hair-like structures on their stalks or leaves.
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