Neckera is a large genus of mosses in the family Neckeraceae (order Leucodontales, class Bryopsida, phylum Bryophyta), first described by Johann Hedwig. The genus has a cosmopolitan distribution, occurring across tropical, temperate, and boreal regions worldwide.
Neckera mosses are medium-sized to large and typically form distinctive shelf- or fan-like growth forms on bark and rock surfaces. They range from light to dark green in colour, often with a characteristic glossy sheen. The creeping primary stems branch irregularly, and the leaves — which may be arranged symmetrically or to one side (secund) — vary considerably in shape from oval to oblong or lance-shaped. A defining feature of many species is the strongly undulate (transversely wavy) leaf surface, most pronounced in species such as Neckera pennata and Neckera complanata. The leaf midrib (costa) is typically double and short, or sometimes absent altogether.
Reproduction is either autoicous (male and female structures on the same plant but separate branches) or dioicous (male and female on different plants). Spores measure 12–39 µm. The sporophyte seta is relatively short (0.1–1.2 cm), and the capsules are cylindric to globose.
The genus contains roughly 11 accepted species in GBIF, distributed across every major region of the world. Notable members include Neckera pennata, a boreal epiphyte of old-growth forests; Neckera complanata, widespread across Europe and beyond; and Neckera douglasii, found in Pacific North America.
Etymology
The genus name Neckera commemorates Noël Martin Joseph de Necker (1729–1793), a Belgian-French botanist. The name was established by Johann Hedwig in his foundational work on mosses.
Distribution
Neckera has a cosmopolitan distribution, with species found across Europe, Asia, the Americas, Africa, and the Pacific, including Hawaii (N. hawaiicopennata) and Chile (N. chilensis). Many species are epiphytic, growing on tree bark in humid forests, while others colonise shaded rock surfaces.
Ecology
Species of Neckera are predominantly epiphytic or epilithic, inhabiting bark of deciduous and coniferous trees, mossy boulders, and shaded cliffs in humid, often old-growth forest environments. Their shelf- or pennant-like growth form and wavy leaves are thought to facilitate water conduction along the leaf surface. Some species, such as Neckera pennata, are considered indicators of ecological continuity in boreal forests.
Taxonomy Notes
Neckera is the type genus of the family Neckeraceae. The circumscription of the genus has historically been broad; molecular phylogenetic studies have led to the recognition of several segregate genera, and the species count within the strict genus concept varies among authorities. GBIF currently accepts 11 species under Neckera.
