The requirements of the rare moss, Hamatocaulis vernicosus ( Calliergonaceae, Musci), in the Czech Republic in relation to vegetation, water chemistry and management

Abstract

Hamatocaulis vernicosus, a rare moss, has been investigated in detail for its habitat preferences, ecology and population dynamics in the Czech Republic. At all its known sites plant species composition was described and relationships with environmental factors investigated (water table, pH, water conductivity). Experiments that included mowing and gap cutting were investigated at three sites over two years. Hamatocaulis vernicosus had the highest cover at neutral pH (6.7–7.2) and conductivity between 100 and 250 μS/cm, although most localities had lower values. It was influenced positively by mowing only at a site with a high vascular plants cover, and gap cutting was only beneficial at sites with a low water table. The growth and vitality of Hamatocaulis may, therefore, be supported by suitable management especially in drier habitats.