Crisped Fork-moss
Dicranum bonjeanii
Photo: iNaturalist: (c) Koos Uys, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Koos Uys
Overview
Crisped Fork-moss (Dicranum bonjeanii) is a distinctive bryophyte characterized by its curved, sickle-shaped leaves that become strongly crisped and contorted when dry, giving the species its common name. This moss forms loose to dense tufts or cushions and plays an important ecological role in forest ecosystems by contributing to soil formation, moisture retention, and providing microhabitat for invertebrates.
Crisped Fork-moss faces significant threats from habitat degradation and loss due to human activities and environmental changes. The species is particularly vulnerable to air pollution, changes in water chemistry, and disturbance of its specialized wetland habitats. Climate change and altered hydrological patterns further threaten the delicate moisture conditions this moss requires for survival.
Habitat
Crisped Fork-moss typically grows in acidic wetland environments including bogs, fens, wet heathlands, and marshy areas with consistent moisture levels. The species favors nutrient-poor, acidic substrates and is often found growing on peat, wet soil, or decaying organic matter in these specialized habitats.
Other threatened species in Dicranaceae
Frequently asked questions
Why is Crisped Fork-moss classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Crisped Fork-moss live?
What are the main threats to Crisped Fork-moss?
Get weekly conservation intelligence
One short digest a week of the most striking species and country data we ship, plus breaking conservation news paired with our database where it matters.
Free, no spam. One-click unsubscribe in every email.