Moss in Terrace Canyon

There is lots of moss in Terrace Canyon of Red Rocks, Nevada.
It grows in clumps in damp or shady locations.

Red Rocks, Nevada. October 2007.

Mosses require moisture to survive because of the small size and thinness of tissues, lack of waxy covering to prevent water loss, and the need for liquid water to complete fertilisation. Some mosses can survive desiccation and return to life within a few hours of rehydration.