VU

Waxyleaf Moss

Dicranum polysetum

UnknownLCEULCEU

Overview

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

Dicranum polysetum faces significant pressure from habitat degradation in its specialized boreal and montane forest environments. Climate change poses a particular threat as warming temperatures alter the cool, humid microclimates essential for this moss species. Forest management practices and logging activities further fragment suitable habitat, while air pollution and acid deposition compromise the delicate chemical balance of its substrate.

Threat summary

Habitat

Dicranum polysetum typically grows on decaying logs, tree bases, and forest floor substrates in cool, humid boreal and montane coniferous forests. The species requires stable moisture conditions and partial shade, often forming dense mats in old-growth forest environments with minimal disturbance.

Other threatened species in Dicranaceae

spurred broom mossVU

spurred broom moss

Dicranum spurium

Unknown
Crisped Fork-mossVU

Crisped Fork-moss

Dicranum bonjeanii

Unknown
EN

Green Broom Moss

Dicranum viride

Unknown
VU

Paraleucobryum sauteri

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Waxyleaf Moss classified as Vulnerable?
Waxyleaf Moss 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. Dicranum polysetum faces significant pressure from habitat degradation in its specialized boreal and montane forest environments. Climate change poses a particular threat as warming temperatures alter the cool, humid microclimates essential for this moss species. Forest management practices and logging activities further fragment suitable habitat, while air pollution and acid deposition compromise the delicate chemical balance of its substrate.
Where does Waxyleaf Moss live?
Waxyleaf Moss 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 Waxyleaf Moss?
The main threats to Waxyleaf Moss 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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