VU

medium cottongrass

Eriophorum medium

Unknown

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Medium cottongrass faces severe decline due to widespread drainage and conversion of its specialized wetland habitats for agriculture and development. Climate change poses an additional threat through altered precipitation patterns and increased temperatures that can dry out the acidic bogs and fens this species requires. Eutrophication from agricultural runoff changes the nutrient-poor conditions essential for its survival, while invasive species can outcompete this slow-growing sedge in disturbed habitats.

Threat summary

Habitat

Medium cottongrass inhabits acidic bogs, fens, and wet heathlands across northern Europe and parts of North America. It requires nutrient-poor, waterlogged soils with stable hydrology and thrives in open, unshaded wetland environments.

TERRESTRIAL· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is medium cottongrass classified as Vulnerable?
medium cottongrass is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Medium cottongrass faces severe decline due to widespread drainage and conversion of its specialized wetland habitats for agriculture and development. Climate change poses an additional threat through altered precipitation patterns and increased temperatures that can dry out the acidic bogs and fens this species requires. Eutrophication from agricultural runoff changes the nutrient-poor conditions essential for its survival, while invasive species can outcompete this slow-growing sedge in disturbed habitats.
Where does medium cottongrass live?
medium cottongrass occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to medium cottongrass?
The main threats to medium cottongrass are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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