Field Museum

What are Early Land Plants?

Bryophytes are found all over the world. Areas where bryophytes are dominant include Alaska, Australia, New Zealand, southern South America (especially southern Chile), and throughout the tropics, especially in mountain forests and areas of high elevation. All of the specimens below were found by Field Museum researchers and scientists. They preserve the specimens and bring them back to the museum to study. 

Where are They Found?

 Learn about the significance of these small plants and how they are used around the world in practical everyday life. From the bedroom to medicine, communities have found creative ways to use these bryophytes to support and help their various lifestyles.

Why are Bryophytes Important?

Use the graphic organizer to answer some or all of these questions! 

Keep Exploring!

Field Museum staff work across the globe to conserve the natural world, provide resources to build vibrant communities, and bring people and nature together. With the diversity of life and cultures severely threatened around the world, the Museum's scientific expertise can play a major role in ensuring a strong future where diversity can thrive. 

How Are They Found?

Students will discover the fascinating world of early land plants, commonly known as bryophytes. Learn about the significance of these small plants and their roles as environmental indicators, and predictors of climate change.

Resource Kits

Object Library

Museums

Early Land Plants

What are Early Land Plants?

ACTIVITY 1

Where are They Found?

ACTIVITY 2

How Are They Found?

ACTIVITY 3

Why are Bryophytes Important?

ACTIVITY 4

Keep Exploring!

ACTIVITY 5