meadow starwort
Stellaria fennica
Photo: Photo: (c) Anzhelika Teptina, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Anzhelika Teptina
Overview
Stellaria fennica is a delicate perennial herb in the carnation family, characterized by small white star-shaped flowers and narrow linear leaves. This low-growing plant forms sparse mats in specialized northern habitats and plays a minor but important role in supporting pollinators during its brief flowering period in late spring to early summer.
Stellaria fennica faces severe threats primarily from habitat loss due to agricultural intensification and urban development in its limited range. The species' extremely restricted distribution makes it highly vulnerable to local environmental changes and human activities. Climate change may further exacerbate these pressures by altering suitable habitat conditions.
Habitat
Stellaria fennica occurs in moist, nutrient-poor sandy or gravelly soils along northern coastlines and lake shores. The species is typically found in areas with seasonal flooding or high groundwater, often in partially shaded locations near the edges of boreal forests.
Other threatened species in Caryophyllaceae
Frequently asked questions
Why is meadow starwort classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does meadow starwort live?
What are the main threats to meadow starwort?
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