peristome

(noun)

one or two rings of tooth-like appendages surrounding the opening of the capsule of many mosses that aid in spreading spores

Related Terms

Examples of peristome in the following topics:

  • Mosses

    • Mosses are bryophytes that live in many environments and are characterized by their short flat leaves, root-like rhizoids, and peristomes.
    • A structure called a peristome increases the spread of spores after the tip of the capsule falls off at dispersal.