From Tiny Plants to Big Impact: Moss as a Keystone Species in Eco-Restoration

Moss is found at the boundary layer of the soil and the forested environment above, and mosses are known to play an important role in regulating the soil environment. In our trial, Bristly hair-cap moss (Polytrichum piliferum) slowed water loss in the sandy northern soils (Brunisols)! This increased moisture retention from the moss supported the root growth of jackpine and blueberry. Pretty neat!