Leaf distal median cells 25-65 × 45 µm, thin-walled except for the tiny corner thickenings, marginal cells quadrate, basal cells rectangular. Antheridia mingled with hyaline, filiform paraphyses. Seta wrinkled-striate, often twisted when dry. Protected niches on moist soil or humus, most commonly in crevices of siliceous rocks; low to moderate elevations; Greenland; B.C., Nfld. and Labr. (Nfld.), Yukon; Alaska, Wash.; n Europe; South America (Tierra del Fuego); e Asia; Atlantic Islands (Falkland Islands).