Describe briefly the economic importance of bryophytes.

Explanation

Economic importance of bryophytes are as follows `:`
(i) Mosses help in soil conservation. They grow as dense mat on soil surface and hold the soil particles firmly. In this way, bryophytes help in soil conservation.
(ii) Bryophytes help in the formation of soil. Mosses growing on rock add organic matter to the soil. So, they make the soil surface fertile for growth of higher plants.
(iii) The sphagnum has excellent water absorbing property. Therefore moist, Sphagnum is used by gardener to prevent dessication of seedling, cutting, vegetables etc.
(iv) The compact dark coloured peat is formed by Sphagnum moss. It is rich in carbon and used as fuel.
(v) Certain bryophytes have uses in medicines. Now a days, they are used in the formation of antibiotics.