“Looking Down
– Mosses in the California Flora”
Guest Speaker: Stephen P. Rae, Ph.D.
A journey into the world of mosses with side trips to rocks, tree, streams and fens. Dr Rae will explain how mosses differ from “real” plants and why you should be interested.
A short PowerPoint as an overview leads into looking at specimens and discussing which species are in the area. Along the way we will learn about the many mosses that are sensitive in California. Also, we will look into why mosses have been overlooked for so long, and why you will be pivotal in helping them gain the recognition they so richly deserve. Specimens will be displayed, microscopes will be on tables and reference books will be briefly examined. Learn how easy it is to identify some, while others remain quite difficult even for the experienced. So, learn how those in the know do what they know! And, find someone to help get done what they do not know! While no experience is necessary, an urge to get on your knees and focus on little stuff is encouraged. Bring your handlens (10x or better).
