Bogs

Bogs, also known as mires, are unique wetlands that are dominated by Sphagnum (peat) moss, which creates a unique, abiotic environment. Many bogs do not have water inlets or outlets; rainfall may be the only source of new water (paludification). These Sphagnum mosses have an amazing ability to retain water in their leaves (through special cells call hyaline). Peat moss also changes the water chemistry by releasing hydrogen ions which lower the pH of the bog (i.e. making it acidic). This acidification strips the bog of minerals, and also interferes with the water and mineral absorption abilities of other plants living in or attempting to establish themselves in this wetland (similar to acid rain effects). Therefore, a bog is an unique wetland that is infertile and acidic, that has species that are endemic to them.

In bogs, some specialized plants, such as carnivorous plants, have evolved the ability to capture and digest invertebrates (mostly insects). This is an adaptation to supplement their mineral intake, in these infertile boggy environments.

Other bog plants, such as terrestrial orchids and cranberry plants, grow on limited minerals and deal with the water absorption problem with other adaptations to prevent water loss. For example, the leaves of these plants may be very small and tough, similar to adaptations in desert plants.

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