Lepidopilum

Lepidopilum is a genus of mosses belonging to the family Pilotrichaceae. These mosses are generally found in tropical and subtropical regions, often growing as epiphytes on trees and other surfaces. They are characterized by their creeping stems and distinctive leaf morphology, which includes overlapping leaves that contribute to a feathery or shingle-like appearance.

Lepidopilum species exhibit considerable variation in size and leaf shape, making species identification challenging. Key characteristics used in classification include the arrangement and shape of the leaves, the presence or absence of a costa (midrib) in the leaf, and the structure of the cells within the leaf. The sporophytes, or spore-bearing structures, also provide important diagnostic features.

Ecologically, Lepidopilum mosses play a role in nutrient cycling and contribute to the overall biodiversity of their habitats. They provide microhabitats for small invertebrates and contribute to water retention in forest ecosystems.

Taxonomic research continues to refine the understanding of species relationships within Lepidopilum, and molecular data is increasingly being used to clarify phylogenetic relationships within the genus and the Pilotrichaceae family.