Polytrichum longisetum

Petite Widertonmoos ( Polytrichum longisetum )

The Dainty Widertonmoos ( Polytrichum longisetum, Syn: Polytrichastrum longisetum ) occurs only in moderately to strongly acidic, dry to wet bogs between sphagnum peat, or rarely on rotten wood or on earth. There is a weak competitive pioneer moss, which is inhabited particularly peat extraction and open raised bog areas. Typical accompanying Moose are the Steifblättrige maidenhair ( Polytrichum strictum ), the golden maidenhair moss ( Polytrichum commune) and the Deceptive peat moss (Sphagnum fallax ).

It can with the beautiful Widertonmoos ( Polytrichastrum formosum ) are confused, which (among other habitat requirements ) but has smaller lamina cells, has a narrower leaf edge and cylindrical- rectangular capsules formed. The leaf edges of the dainty Widertonmooses also come equipped with characteristic teeth. (see illustration)