Schistidium platyphyllum Broadleaf Grimmia

An autoicous acrocarpous moss which like Schistidium rivulare grows on rocks and boulders along fast flowing rivers but is more often found on base-rich rocks in upland areas. It is very similar to Schistidium rivulare but its leaves, which usually lack hair points, are shorter and broader and the tips of the capsules project beyond them (see photo) so they are not completely hidden. It is a Boreo Arctic-montane species which appears to be less common in Britain than Schistidium rivulare and has not been recorded from much of Wales except for riparian sites in the south. However, it may be confused with Schistidium rivulare and under recorded. In West Glamorgan it is occasional along the main river systems, particularly the Afan and upper Tawe. Sporophyte capsules are common in spring.