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extinguisher moss
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Encalypta ciliata
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extinguisher moss

plant
Also known as: Encalypta
Written and fact-checked by
Britannica Editors
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History

extinguisher moss, any of the plants of the genus Encalypta (subclass Bryidae), which form large tufts on limestone rocks, ledges, and walls. About 8 of the 34 species in the genus are native to North America. They are usually 1 to 3 cm (0.4 to 1.2 inches) tall, with erect capsules (spore cases) borne on setae (stalks) about 5 to 10 mm (0.2 to 0.4 inches) long. The calyptra (hoodlike covering) of each capsule resembles a candle snuffer, or extinguisher, and extends below the capsule; in E. ciliata the calyptra is fringed.

This article was most recently revised and updated by William L. Hosch.