Thread-moss 



The Pear-shaped Thread-moss, Leptobryum pyriforme, 

 Schimp. See cuts on page 218. 



Habit and habitat. In dense silky green patches on shady 

 rocks and walls, and sandy or turfy soil, also on burnt and decay- 

 ing trees. Common. 



W. nutans. Leaves. (See page 219.) 



L. pyriforme. Por- 

 tion of peristome. 



L. pyriforme. Spore-case with lid and 

 long neck. 



W. nutans. 



Plant. 

 (See page 219.) 



Name. The specific name pyriforme is from the Latin pyrum, 

 a pear, and forma, form, referring to the spore-case. 



Plant (gametophyte). Slender, simple, stem short. One- 

 half to one inch high. 



Leaves. The lower distant, narrowly lance-shaped, the upper 

 tufted and longer; apex awl-like, flexuose, serrate; cells above, 



217 



