Dwarf Haircap
Pogonatum nanum
Dwarf Haircap is a small moss species characterized by its distinctive hair-like structures (calyptra) that cover the developing spore capsules, giving it its common name. This diminutive bryophyte forms low, dense cushions or mats with narrow, pointed leaves arranged in a spiral pattern around short stems.
40
Countries
Photo: iNaturalist: (c) Rafael Medina, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Rafael Medina
Taxonomy & Classification
Kingdom
Plantae
Phylum
Bryophyta
Class
Polytrichopsida
Order
Polytrichales
Family
Polytrichaceae
Genus
Pogonatum
Dwarf Haircap belongs to the family Polytrichaceae, order Polytrichales, within the Polytrichopsida class.
Species Profile
Dwarf Haircap is a small moss species characterized by its distinctive hair-like structures (calyptra) that cover the developing spore capsules, giving it its common name. This diminutive bryophyte forms low, dense cushions or mats with narrow, pointed leaves arranged in a spiral pattern around short stems. As a pioneer species, it plays a crucial role in soil stabilization and provides microhabitat for invertebrates while contributing to nutrient cycling in early successional ecosystems.
Dwarf Haircap moss faces significant threats from habitat degradation and loss due to human activities and environmental changes. Its specialized habitat requirements make it particularly vulnerable to disturbances that alter soil conditions, moisture levels, and microclimate stability in its terrestrial environments.
Key Facts
Habitat & Distribution
Dwarf Haircap moss typically occurs on disturbed soils, sandy or clay substrates, path edges, and open ground in various terrestrial environments. It favors areas with moderate moisture levels and can be found on banks, roadsides, and other exposed soil surfaces where competition from other vegetation is limited.
Threats
Habitat loss and fragmentation
Soil disturbance and trampling
Agricultural expansion and land conversion
Changes in hydrology and moisture regimes
Climate change impacts on microhabitat conditions
Found in 40 Countries
National vs Global Threat Status
How this species is assessed at the national level compared to its IUCN global status (VU).
| Country | National Status | Global Status | Comparison |
|---|---|---|---|
| EU | LCLeast Concern | VUVulnerable | Lower local risk |
| EU | LCLeast Concern | VUVulnerable | Lower local risk |
National Red List data sourced from the National Red List Project (nationalredlist.org, ZSL) and country-specific Red List authorities.
Community Sightings
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Sources & Attribution
How to Cite
IUCN: IUCN (2025). The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2025-1. Available at: https://www.iucnredlist.org. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2025-1.RLTS
GBIF: GBIF.org (2025). GBIF Home Page. Available at: https://www.gbif.org
National Red Lists: ZSL (2025). National Red List. Zoological Society of London. Available at: https://www.nationalredlist.org
This page: SpeciesRadar (2025). Dwarf Haircap (Pogonatum nanum). SpeciesRadar: Intelligence for Earth's Biodiversity. Available at: https://speciesradar.org/species/dwarf-haircap