Sphagnum Moss

Fig.1 Sphagnum Moss

Sphagnum moss (Fig.1), in this instance, presents itself as an essential aspect in the creation of a bog ecosystem. It is capable of retaining a tremendous amount of water, while still remaining buoyant enough to support terrestrial life. In this case, the nature of sphagnum moss has resulted in a sphagnum bog which has therefore created a community of species specifically suited for bog habitats. Some of these species include orchids (Fig. 2), carnivorous plants (such as sundews and pitcher plants) and cranberry plants. The fun thing about sphagnum moss bogs is that as sphagnum moss dies, more sphagnum moss will grow over it. The important thing about this process is that over time old and new moss compounds and creates a thicker blanket of biomass for more plants to establish. The effect of this is to create a really neat looking succession from the forest to the water's edge (Fig.3)

Fig.3 Sphagnum Moss Bog Succession 

Fig. 2 Pink Lady Slipper