Bryophytes include many forms of plants that are commonly referred to as "mosses and
liverworts". As a group they are devoid of specialized tissues that are found in
vascular plants. Also the dominant plant is a generation called the gametophyte. This
plant originates from a spore and produces gametes. Ecologically, the mosses and
liverworts are important as they help hold moisture in the habitat where they are found.
Habitats range from alpine summits to caves to the Arctic. Much of the green color on the
barks of trees are various kinds of mosses and liverworts. Dr. Paul L. Redfearn Jr.,
founder of the Ozarks Regional Herbarium, is one of the world's experts on Bryophytes. A
listing of research manuscripts documents, and books can be obtained by referring to the
section Studies by Herbarium Staff and Faculty
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