Sphagnum is a bryophyte which is of great economic importance in plant genera. It is commonly known as sphagnum moss or peat moss. It inhibits bacterial and fungal growth by acidifying its surroundings.

Some of the uses showing the economic importance of Sphagnum are listed below:

• It is used as a packing material because of its property of retaining moisture like a sponge
• Maintains the acidity of the soil by acidifying its surroundings which retains the fertility of the soil
• It can be used as a domestic fuel (after completely drying it) as it has half the heating power of coal and twice that of wood.
• Used as absorbent material (replaces absorbent cotton) for surgical and medicinal purposes
• Peat mosses are used in gardens, nurseries and flower shops to keep plants and flowers fresh
• Improves the water-retaining property of the soil

Related Links:

• Bryophytes: Habitat, Classification, Characteristics
• Sphagnum: Classification, Structure and Reproduction
• Moss: Characteristics, Life Cycle and Uses

Visit BYJU’S for more information on NEET.