How are they?
They are generally small in size, and have a life cycle which includes two stages: the gametophyte and sporophyte, each with very different characteristics. Unlike in the ferns, the gametophyte (haploid) is the dominant stage in mosses. The sporophyte (diploid) is very small and short lived. The gametophyte has a small, often prostrate stem with small leaves arranged in a spiral. It also has rhizoids, through which they obtain nutrients.

How do they live?
Mosses form microenvironments of high humidity, since they retain water like a sponge and release it very slowly. For this reason, many micro-organisms and small arthropods depend on mosses. They are of great importance in the water cycle, because they store water and also prevent erosion.

How do we use them?
Mosses are collected as ornamentals, especially in the Christmas season to decorate nativity scenes, floral arrangements and decorative baskets.