Economic Importance of Sphagnum - A Useful Bryophyte

Last Updated on Jul 31, 2023
Download As PDF
IMPORTANT LINKS

Sphagnum , more commonly known as sphagnum moss or peat moss, is a type of bryophyte that holds significant economic value. This plant genus has the unique ability to acidify its environment, which effectively inhibits the growth of bacteria and fungi.

To further illustrate the economic importance of Sphagnum , here are some of its key uses:

  • Due to its moisture-retaining properties, sphagnum is often utilized as a packing material, helping to keep items fresh during transit.
  • Sphagnum contributes to maintaining soil fertility by acidifying its environment, which in turn helps to preserve the acidity of the soil.
  • After being thoroughly dried, sphagnum can serve as a domestic fuel source. It possesses half the heating power of coal and double that of wood.
  • In the medical field, sphagnum is used as an absorbent material for surgical procedures, offering a viable alternative to absorbent cotton.
  • In the horticultural industry, peat mosses are utilized in nurseries, flower shops, and gardens to maintain the freshness of plants and flowers.
  • Sphagnum also enhances the water-retention capacity of soil, making it a valuable resource in agriculture and gardening.

Related Links:

For more information on NEET , visit our website.

More Articles for Biology

Frequently Asked Questions

Sphagnum is a bryophyte which is of great economic importance in plant genera. It is commonly known as sphagnum moss or peat moss. It inhibits bacterial and fungal growth by acidifying its surroundings.

Sphagnum has many uses. It can be used as a packing material, to maintain the acidity of the soil, as a domestic fuel, as an absorbent material for surgical and medicinal purposes, to keep plants and flowers fresh in gardens, nurseries and flower shops, and to improve the water-retaining property of the soil.

UGC NET/SET Course Online by SuperTeachers: Complete Study Material, Live Classes & More

Get UGC NET/SET SuperCoaching @ just

₹25999 ₹11666

Your Total Savings ₹14333
Explore SuperCoaching
Test Series
134.1k Students
NCERT XI-XII Physics Foundation Pack Mock Test
323 TOTAL TESTS | 3 Free Tests
  • 3 Live Test
  • 163 Class XI Chapter Tests
  • 157 Class XII Chapter Tests

Get Started
Report An Error