''Lateristachys diffusa'', Synonym (taxonomy), synonym ''Lycopodiella diffusa'', known as carpet clubmoss, is a species of clubmoss in the family (biology), 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 (Scottish botanist from Montrose), Robert Brown.

Ecology

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

Conservation status

The Department of Conservation (New Zealand), Department of Conservation in New Zealand classifies ''Lateristachys diffusa'' as Not Threatened.

References

External links

Syntype specimen of Lycopodiella diffusa held at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa
Plants described in 1810 Flora of New Zealand Flora of Tasmania Lycopodiaceae {{Lycophyte-stub