More On Mielichhoferia Mielichhoferiana..pdf

A new Didymodon species has been discovered, and it is expected that it may be found in other locations now that its existence and characteristics are known. The species was found near the River Camlad, which flows into the River Severn, raising the question of whether it also grows on the banks of the Severn.

Planning agencies are looking for ways to prevent or reduce flooding, which may alter conditions on riverbanks and change their character and wildlife. It is essential to record the riverbanks diligently before these changes occur.

Regarding Mielichhoferia mielichhoferiana, there is no compelling evidence for its presence in Britain. Most specimens examined proved to be either M. elongata or Pohlia nutans. The problem lies in differentiating between depauperate specimens of putative M. mielichhoferiana and Pohlia nutans.

True M. mielichhoferiana has a metallic sheen and a characteristic twist, but size, compactness, and fragility alone do not distinguish it from P. nutans. The nerve section is a good character for distinguishing M. mielichhoferiana from M. elongata, but P. nutans and M. mielichhoferiana are very similar in this respect.

A specimen from Coire Kander, identified as M. mielichhoferiana, shows characteristics of the species, including a metallic sheen and a slight twist. However, it is small and fragmentary, and its identity is not conclusive. Further fieldwork is needed to find material of M. mielichhoferiana or the hybrid in Coire Kander.