Leaf morphological structure of twelve moss species from the No.1 glacier of the Tianshan Mountains

The micromorphological structures of twelve species of moss plants were observed from the No.1 glacier of the Tianshan Mountains by paraffin section and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results indicated that the type, size, distribution, degree of dry cell wall depression, and morphology and distribution of surface cuticles and pores of the leaf cells, middle ribs, cell walls and cell surfaces were significantly different in different bryophyte species. These micromorphological characteristics not only have great significance in the species classification of moss plants, but also reflect the survival strategy of plant leaves for retaining water and resisting cold, wind and strong light irradiation in severe environments. This study can provide an important scientific basis for studies on the ecological functions of bryophytes in extreme environments.