VU

stiftbroktagel

Bryoria smithii

Unknown

Overview

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

Bryoria smithii faces severe decline due to air pollution, particularly sulfur dioxide and nitrogen compounds that directly damage its sensitive thallus structure. Old-growth forest logging eliminates the mature trees this lichen requires as substrate, while climate change alters the cool, humid microclimatic conditions essential for its survival. Urban expansion and industrial development further fragment its remaining habitat corridors.

Threat summary

Habitat

This fruticose lichen grows exclusively on the bark of mature coniferous trees in old-growth and late-successional forests, particularly favoring areas with consistent moisture and minimal air pollution. It requires the stable microclimatic conditions found in undisturbed forest canopies with high humidity and filtered light.

TERRESTRIAL· major

Frequently asked questions

Why is stiftbroktagel classified as Vulnerable?
stiftbroktagel 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. Bryoria smithii faces severe decline due to air pollution, particularly sulfur dioxide and nitrogen compounds that directly damage its sensitive thallus structure. Old-growth forest logging eliminates the mature trees this lichen requires as substrate, while climate change alters the cool, humid microclimatic conditions essential for its survival. Urban expansion and industrial development further fragment its remaining habitat corridors.
Where does stiftbroktagel live?
stiftbroktagel 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 stiftbroktagel?
The main threats to stiftbroktagel 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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