Moss Ear
VU

Moss Ear

Chromocyphella muscicola

Unknown

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chromocyphella_muscicola

Overview

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

The Moss Ear faces significant threats from habitat degradation due to air pollution and acid rain, which alter the chemistry of its moss substrates and reduce suitable growing conditions. Urban development and forest management practices that remove or disturb moss-covered surfaces further limit available habitat. Climate change poses additional risks through altered precipitation patterns that affect the moisture-dependent moss communities this fungus requires for survival.

Threat summary

Habitat

The Moss Ear is found exclusively on moss-covered surfaces in humid, shaded environments including old-growth forests, woodland edges, and moss-rich rock faces. This specialized fungus requires specific moisture conditions and grows primarily on bryophyte substrates in temperate regions with consistent humidity levels.

TERRESTRIAL· major

Frequently asked questions

Why is Moss Ear classified as Vulnerable?
Moss Ear 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. The Moss Ear faces significant threats from habitat degradation due to air pollution and acid rain, which alter the chemistry of its moss substrates and reduce suitable growing conditions. Urban development and forest management practices that remove or disturb moss-covered surfaces further limit available habitat. Climate change poses additional risks through altered precipitation patterns that affect the moisture-dependent moss communities this fungus requires for survival.
Where does Moss Ear live?
Moss Ear 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 Moss Ear?
The main threats to Moss Ear 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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