Pygmy pocket moss (Fissidens exilis) COSEWIC assessment and status report: chapter 1

Assessment Summary – May 2005

Common name : Pygmy pocket moss

Scientific name : Fissidens exilis

Status : Special Concern

Reason for designation : A moss with a limited distribution in eastern North America, but which is widespread in Europe. Few populations have been documented in Canada, primarily in Ontario where it occurs in heavily populated and developed areas where natural habitats are widely known to be at serious risk. Although cryptic in habit, the species often grows with other small species that have well documented ranges. The species prefers woodlands, where it is usually found on bare clay or disturbed soil. Most locations are in areas benefiting from some level of conservation protection.

Occurrence : Ontario, Quebec

Status history : Designated Special Concern in May 2005. Assessment based on a new status report.