Woolly Fringe-moss
Racomitrium lanuginosum
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Racomitrium_lanuginosum
Overview
Racomitrium lanuginosum is a widespread species of moss found in montane and arctic tundra, the genus Racomitrium is found across the Northern and Southern hemispheres., however Racomitrium lanuginosum is only found in the Northern hemisphere. It grows as large mats on exposed rock and in boulder scree, particularly on acidic rocks. Its leaves have a characteristically decurrent and toothed hair-point, which gives rise to its regional common names woolly fringemoss, hoary rock-moss and woolly moss.
Woolly Fringe-moss faces severe threats from climate change, particularly warming temperatures and altered precipitation patterns that disrupt the cool, moist conditions essential for its survival. Air pollution, including nitrogen deposition and acid rain, significantly degrades the oligotrophic environments this species requires, while habitat fragmentation from human development isolates populations and reduces genetic diversity.
Habitat
Rocky outcrops, exposed mountain slopes, and acidic substrates in cool, humid environments, particularly in boreal and subarctic regions. The species typically colonizes nutrient-poor, well-drained surfaces including lava fields, scree slopes, and weathered rock faces at various elevations.
Other threatened species in Grimmiaceae
Frequently asked questions
Why is Woolly Fringe-moss classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Woolly Fringe-moss live?
What are the main threats to Woolly Fringe-moss?
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