Research Themes

Developmental and physiological aspects of moss growth

Mosses are major contributors to ecosystem functioning across the globe. Although more than 12,000 species have been recognized, the majority of functional and ecological studies have focused on species from temperate regions. In India, moss research has largely been restricted to the model moss Physcomitrium patens, while native moss diversity in the tropics remains relatively unexplored in mainstream research. To address this gap, I have received the ANRF Prime Minister Early Career Research Grant (2026) to investigate the genetic diversity and functional biology of Indian mosses. Research on moss diversity, growth, physiology, and ecological function will constitute a major focus of the Moss Lab.

Microhabitat preferences of mosses

Our lab will focus on understanding the microhabitat preferences of mosses. Mosses are well known for their ability to grow in places where many other plants cannot grow. Due to their small stature, often only a few centimetres tall, they can thrive in a favourable microhabitat even when the overall macroclimate is harsh. For example, despite the harsh sunlight and wind on the rocks, moss thrives in the crevices and at the base. We will do systematics studies to decipher the microhabitat preferences of mosses and their ecological relevance.