Sphagnum Moss - Beginnings of a Peat Bog

Sphagnum moss stores rainwater, thereby allowing a peat bog (developing or mature) to be independent of groundwater.  Bogs require a great deal of precipiation in order to grow.

This area of sphagnum moss is located in The Netherlands.

Credits

Photograph of sphagnum moss, online courtesy Drents Museum, The Netherlands.