Dr. Schofield holding Sphagnum:

Branching:

A leaf:

A closer look at the cells of the leaf:

Stains, such as crystal violet, make it easier to see the pores

A closer look at the cells of the leaf stained with violet blue:

Leaf cross-sections are useful for identification. Note the large dead hyaline cell and the smaller chlrophyllose cells. The shape and position of the chlorophyllose cells can be important characters.

In Sphagnum papillosum pictured here you can see the papillose nature of the hyaline cell wall adjacent to the chlorophyllose cell.

Cross-section through the main stem (compliments of Elena):

Cross-section through a side branch (compliments of Jacky):

In some species of Sphagnum (such as Sphagnum fuscum) the cortex cells of the side branches have retort cells.

Sporophytes of Sphagnum tenellum

A longitudinal section of a sporophyte:

The next two species of Sphagnum are common in Burns Bog.

Sphagnum capillifolium:

Sphagnum papillosum:

Sphagnum squarrosum pictured below is a species which is commonly found in depressions in forested areas. This picture was taken at Richmond Nature Park.

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