Lateristachys diffusa

Lateristachys diffusa, synonym Lycopodiella diffusa, known as carpet clubmoss, is a species of clubmoss in the family Lycopodiaceae. It is indigenous to New Zealand and to Tasmania, Australia.

Description

The main stems of this plant are found underground when growing on boggy terrain, but can occur above ground in dryer habitats. The stems are normally not more than 25 cm in length and root at intervals.

Taxonomy

The first description of this plant was published in 1810 in Prodromus Florae Novae Hollandiae et Insulae Van Diemen by Robert Brown.

Ecology

Analysis of fossilised excrement of the kākāpō has shown that this plant was historically part of the diet of that endangered bird.

Conservation status

The Department of Conservation in New Zealand classifies Lateristachys diffusa as Not Threatened.