A small, non-vascular plant that lacks true roots, stems, and leaves, reproducing by spores and requiring moisture for fertilization. Mosses form dense, cushion-like mats and play crucial ecological roles in preventing soil erosion and retaining moisture.
From Old English 'mos', related to Old Norse 'mosi' meaning bog or swamp, reflecting mosses' preference for moist environments. The word's connection to wetland habitats has persisted across Germanic languages.
Mosses are botanical sponges that can absorb up to 20 times their weight in water and survive complete dehydration for months! They're also ecosystem engineers, creating their own microclimates and serving as nurseries for countless other organisms.
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