How does Sphagnum moss release its spores?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Thick green bryophyte moss covers the trunks of three oak trees in a forest, with fallen leaves on the ground. — bryophyte Bryophyte moss growing on oak trees.

In the genus Sphagnum, also known as peat moss, spore release is a unique mechanical process driven by the drying of the sporangium (spore case).

As the spherical brown sporangium matures, it traps air inside. As it begins to dry out, the sporangium shrinks, which causes a buildup of internal pressure. This pressure eventually becomes great enough to abruptly cast off the lid, or operculum, and shoot the spores into the air, sometimes as far as 10 cm (4 inches) from the plant.12