Dicranaceae

/ˌdɪkræneɪˈeɪsiː/ noun

Definition

A large family of feather mosses characterized by two-pronged or forked leaf arrangements.

Etymology

From Greek 'dikran' (two-pronged fork) + Latin '-aceae' (family suffix in taxonomy). Named for the distinctive forked or bifid leaf appearance in mosses of this group.

Kelly Says

These mosses are found on tree bark, rocks, and soil all over the world, and if you look at their leaves under a microscope, you'll see they really do look like tiny two-pronged forks!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.