Thin-scale Cottongrass
VU

Thin-scale Cottongrass

Eriophorum angustifolium

UnknownLCEULCEU

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

Overview

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

Thin-scale Cottongrass faces severe pressure from wetland drainage and peat extraction across its range, with bog habitats being converted for agriculture and forestry. Climate change poses an additional threat through altered precipitation patterns and rising temperatures that affect the delicate hydrology of peat bogs. Nitrogen deposition from agricultural runoff and air pollution further degrades the nutrient-poor conditions this species requires to compete effectively with other vegetation.

Threat summary

Habitat

Thin-scale Cottongrass inhabits acidic peat bogs, fens, and wet moorlands, typically in nutrient-poor, waterlogged soils with pH levels below 5.5. The species thrives in open wetland areas with consistent moisture levels and minimal competition from woody vegetation.

TERRESTRIAL· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Thin-scale Cottongrass classified as Vulnerable?
Thin-scale 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. Thin-scale Cottongrass faces severe pressure from wetland drainage and peat extraction across its range, with bog habitats being converted for agriculture and forestry. Climate change poses an additional threat through altered precipitation patterns and rising temperatures that affect the delicate hydrology of peat bogs. Nitrogen deposition from agricultural runoff and air pollution further degrades the nutrient-poor conditions this species requires to compete effectively with other vegetation.
Where does Thin-scale Cottongrass live?
Thin-scale 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 Thin-scale Cottongrass?
The main threats to Thin-scale 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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