Quick Answer
Moss can be particularly helpful in certain geographic areas where it grows thickly, such as in the Pacific Northwest of North America, where it often forms dense carpets on tree trunks and branches.
Navigation in the Pacific Northwest
The dense growth of moss in the Pacific Northwest makes it a useful tool for navigation. By looking for moss on the north side of trees and rocks, you can determine the direction of north. This is because the north side of most trees and rocks receives less direct sunlight and is therefore shadier, which allows the moss to grow more densely. In areas with dense coniferous forests, look for the moss to be at least 20% thicker on the north side of trees, which can help you determine the direction of north.
Identifying Moss on Tree Trunks
Moss can be particularly thick on tree trunks in areas with high humidity and rainfall, such as in tropical and subtropical regions. Look for the moss to be at least 1-2 inches thick on tree trunks and branches, which can provide a clear indication of the direction of north. This technique can be helpful in areas where other navigation tools are not available.
Using Moss to Indicate Terrain Features
In areas with dense forests and uneven terrain, moss can be used to indicate the location of terrain features such as ridges, valleys, and streams. Look for moss to be growing more densely on the north side of ridges and hills, which can indicate the direction of the ridge or hill. Conversely, look for moss to be growing less densely on the south side of valleys and low-lying areas, which can indicate the direction of the valley or stream.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.