Olive Bog-moss
Sphagnum majus
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Olive Bog-moss faces severe pressure from peatland drainage and conversion for agriculture and forestry across its European range. Climate change poses an additional threat through altered precipitation patterns and increased temperatures that can dry out the waterlogged conditions essential for this species. Atmospheric nitrogen deposition from industrial and agricultural sources disrupts the nutrient-poor conditions that Sphagnum species require to compete effectively with other vegetation.
Habitat
Olive Bog-moss inhabits acidic, nutrient-poor wetlands including raised bogs, blanket bogs, and wet heathlands across northern and western Europe. It requires consistently waterlogged conditions with low pH levels and minimal nutrient input, typically forming dense carpets in the wettest areas of peatland ecosystems.
Other threatened species in Sphagnaceae
Frequently asked questions
Why is Olive Bog-moss classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Olive Bog-moss live?
What are the main threats to Olive Bog-moss?
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