Moss (seed plants and pteridophytes), where the diploid sporophyte generation is dominant. Mosses are now classified on their own as the division Bryophyta. There are approximately 12,000 species. The main commercial significance of mosses is as the main constituent of peat (mostly the genus "Sphagnum"), although they are also used for decorative purposes, such as in gardens and in the florist trade. Traditional uses of mosses included as insulation and for the ability to absorb liquids up to 20 times their weight. Botanically, mosses are non-vascular plants in the land plant division Bryophyta. They are small (a few centimeters tall) herbaceous
Portlethen Moss have been enhanced by proximity to the sea and natural defensive protection of the moss to impede intruders. From Tacitus accounts of the Roman general Agricola, it is known that the Romans were daunted by Portlethen Moss, Netherley Red Moss, Cookney Moss and other local bogs that hindered travel. This is also evidenced by the Roman Camp of Raedykes having been established immediately south of this cluster of mosses; the Romans not being able to progress further north, turned inland toward Netherley.The Portlethen Moss is near the Grampian Mountains. The ancient Causey Mounth passage specifically connected the Bridge of Dee