English name: Mouse-tail moss
A pleurocarpous moss with a distinctly tree-like growth form that is found growing away from the substrate and curving downwards from inclined and vertical surfaces. Branch leaves are triangularly spearhead-shaped and taper to a rather sharply toothed tip. The elliptical and slightly asymmetrical capsules have a long beak, and are held inclined.
Capsules mature from winter to early spring.
In Scotland, Isothecium myosuroides is widespread in non-calcareous woodland and other shaded habitats and well-drained habitats where it grows on boulders and tree trunks. BBS distribution map
Look out for Loeskeobryum brevirostre, Rhytidiadelphus loreus, Scapania gracilis and Thuidium tamariscinum nearby.
Confusion species: Hypnum cupressiforme, Hypnum andoi, Isothecium alopecuroides and Thamnobryum alopecurum
scottishlichens.co.uk 