Feather Moss (Pleurozium schreberi)

Plant · GBIF taxon 2679715

Feather Moss

Pleurozium schreberi

Also known as Red-stemmed Feathermoss, Schreber's Big Red Stem Moss, Red-stemmed Moss

Red-stemmed feathermoss forms expansive, golden-green carpets across northern boreal forests and temperate woodlands. Its bright, clear red stems contrast vividly with its pinnate, overlapping leaves, making it easily distinguishable on the forest floor. These moss mats retain moisture, insulate permafrost, and host nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria that enrich nutrient-poor soils.

BorealEvergreenMat-forming

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—observations

—countries

—peak records

Least ConcernConservation status

Key facts

Diet & prey

Sunlight
Water
Atmospheric Nutrients

Predators

Reindeer
Mites
Springtails

ThreatsHabitat Loss, Severe Wildfires, Air Pollution

HabitatsBoreal Forests, Coniferous Woodlands, Acidic Heathlands, Bogs

Life spanPerennial (Strands live 3–5 years)

Size / weightNot available

Classification

FamilyHylocomiaceae
SpeciesPleurozium schreberi

Range & activity

Range data is not available yet.

Safe observation

Interaction riskLow

Low
Moderate
High
Very high

Why interaction risk is low: Safe to observe at a normal distance.

Responsible observation

Stem Examination: Gently peel back the upper leaves to reveal the characteristic bright red stem beneath.
Habitat Spotting: Look for vast carpets covering acidic soil, decaying logs, and rock outcrops in damp conifer woods.
Avoid Trampling: Walk on designated paths to avoid damaging fragile boreal moss mats.

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