Ologies with Alie Ward

Bryology (MOSS) with Dr. Robin Wall Kimmerer

Jun 30, 2020
Guest
Robin Wall Kimmerer
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INSIGHT

Chemical Defenses And Low Nutritional Value

  • Moss leaves are low in nutrients but rich in polyphenols and tannins, providing antimicrobial defenses and low palatability.
  • Birds and mammals rarely eat moss leaves; some animals may use mosses for antimicrobial or digestive benefits.
ANECDOTE

Traditional Uses: Moss Diapers And Insulation

  • Dr. Kimmerer describes traditional uses like potawatomi 'moss bags' for diapers and widespread insulation uses.
  • Mosses were used as absorbent, antimicrobial, insulating materials in clothing, bedding and wigwam construction.
INSIGHT

Desiccation Survival Strategy

  • Many mosses survive extreme drying by entering suspended animation and rapidly resuming photosynthesis when wet.
  • Desert and temperate mosses exploit desiccation tolerance to persist where other plants cannot.
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