Dwarf Rock-bristle
Seligeria pusilla
Photo: iNaturalist: (c) Johannes Merz, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-ND), uploaded by Johannes Merz
Overview
Dwarf Rock-bristle (Seligeria pusilla) is a tiny acrocarpous moss species that forms small, inconspicuous cushions or scattered shoots on rock surfaces. This diminutive bryophyte has narrow, bristle-like leaves and produces small capsules on short setae, playing an important role in pioneer plant communities on bare rock substrates and contributing to initial soil formation processes.
Dwarf Rock-bristle faces significant threats from habitat degradation and loss of suitable rock substrates due to quarrying, construction activities, and air pollution. Its highly specialized habitat requirements and small population sizes make it particularly vulnerable to environmental changes and human disturbances in rocky environments.
Habitat
Dwarf Rock-bristle grows on acidic rock surfaces, particularly sandstone and granite outcrops, walls, and rocky crevices in upland areas. It typically occurs in shaded or semi-shaded locations where moisture levels remain relatively stable.
Other threatened species in Seligeriaceae
Frequently asked questions
Why is Dwarf Rock-bristle classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Dwarf Rock-bristle live?
What are the main threats to Dwarf Rock-bristle?
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