apophysis, pale yellowish brown and somewhat polished
Outer peristome of 16 pale yellow acuminated teeth, which
in dry and mature specimens are strongly incurved, so as
to be concealed within the capsule. Inner peristome a
membrane divided almost to the base into 16 very narrow
filiform erect processes as long as the outer peristome,
without intermediate cilia. Annulus none, unless a separable
yellow border at the margin of the lid may be so
termed. Lid about one fourth of the length of the capsule,
conical with a short inclined beak. Calyptra dimidiate, very
small, yellowish, about twice as long as the lid. Perichae-
tial leaves not apparently distinct, and it is sometimes difficult
to perceive that the fructification is really terminal,
from the frequent prolongation of the stem beyond the
insertion of the fruit-stalk, which has then the appearance
of being axillary within one of the leaves, while several of
the contiguous leaves higher up have also in their axillae
abortive pistilla, an uncommon and singular feature. Anthers
have not been observed.
Except the above synonym, there is no indication in any
known work by which to infer that this moss has ever before
been found in Europe. The moss figured by Schwaegrichen
was brought from Brazil; and in Peru, at Surucucho, a
moss either identical with or closely allied to our moss, was
gathered about the same time by Professor Jameson. Its
nearest British ally is Bryum pyriforme, with which however
it is in no danger of being confounded. It belongs to
the genus Pohlia of Bride!.—W. W.