Dicranoloma menziesii

Plants are small to robust, ranging from 2.5–10 cm (1.0–3.9 in) tall. They are yellowish to dark green in colour, forming tufts or cushions on substrates. Rhizoids are pale brown to white with a central stand present. The leaves are thin, long and falcate-secund or wide-spread forming a bristle-like structure on the tip. The upper half of the leaf consists primarily of the leaf nerve which extends past the tip and has only one to three cell rows of lamina, however these cells are distinctive and isometric. The epidermis is differentiated abaxially and adaxially with distinct luminal cells. The costa distinguishes Dicranoloma menziesii from other closely related species as it is broad and occupies almost the entire width of the median and upper parts of the leaf. Additionally, the setae is rather short at 10 mm (3⁄8 in) long or less. The capsules are cylindrical and may be slightly curved and the seta range from 4.5–8 mm (3⁄16–5⁄16 in) long. Capsules are exceeded by some vegetative or perichaetial leaves. Peristome teeth are asymmetrically bifid and one to two sporogones develop per perichaetium.

Dicranoloma menziesii can be found growing as loose turfs or clumps in mostly wet forests at altitudes up to approximately 1,550 m (5,090 ft) on tree stumps, rocks, logs and lower tree bases and stems. It occurs throughout eastern Queensland, is widespread along the coastal of New South Wales into Victoria and is widespread throughout much of Tasmania and King Island. The species is also widespread throughout New Zealand and many surrounding islands. Within a certain locality, it may exhibit a light form or a dark form, with some intermediate forms common. The lighter form has fewer chloroplasts than the darker form and tends to grow in more exposed habitats. Many bryophyte species, such as D. menziesii are important pioneers on bare surfaces, converting unfavourable substrates into ones suitable for seedling germination. This action is critical for the regeneration of some vascular plant species or communities, particularly in habitats whereby herbivory on the forest floor or unsuitable light conditions prevent the establishment of seedlings. Furthermore, bryophytes can act like sponges, absorbing water directly through their leaves and holding large quantities of water by surface tension among their leaves and fine shoots. Their presence also reduces soil erosion and the evaporation of water from the soil, which helps to maintain a stable environment for other organisms.