Light micrograph of leaves of the bog moss Sphagnum sp. All species of Sphagnum grow in moist places such as bogs and ponds, most particularly in acid conditions. The leaves have a characteristic structure, with green photosynthesising cells interspersed with transparent hyaline cells. The hyaline cells are able to store large quantities of water. When the lower portion of the plant dies, it does not decay because of the acid conditions. Instead, the dead tissue gradually becomes compacted forming peat. Magnification x10 at 35mm size.