Leucoperichaetium eremophilum explained

Leucoperichaetium eremophilum is a species of moss in the family Grimmiaceae that is endemic to Namibia. It is considered a vulnerable species.

Distribution and habitat

L. eremophilum is known only from the type location in WitpĆ¼tz, Namibia, where it can be found growing on quartzite outcrops in dwarf succulent shrubland.[1]

Description

L. eremophilum plants are small, blackish-green in colour, and grow in irregular patches. The stems grow upright, often branching, and measure long, though much of that length may be buried. The leaves are oblong-acuminate, each measuring long, with a pointed, translucent tip and smooth, toothless margins.[1]

Conservation status

L. eremophilum is listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature under criterion D2, based on its extremely limited distribution. The single location at which L. eremophilum is present is threatened by habitat degradation resulting from mining activity in the area.

Notes and References

  1. Book: Magill . Robert E. . Leistner . O. A. . 1981 . Bryophyta. Part 1 Mosses. Fascicle 1 Sphagnaceae - Grimmiaceae . Flora of Southern Africa . 273-274 . Botanical Research Institute, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries . 0 621 06951 5 . Biodiversity Heritage Library.