Mud moss translocation

Bryum cyclophyllum(BC) is GB Critically Endangered, having not being seen at any other GB sites since 1987. Riccia canaliculata(RC) is Vulnerable. Both have been under pressure from the stabilisation of water bodies and eutrophication. They have been noticeably decline in the rate of loss of suitable habitat within UK and Europe has caused rapid decline in this species. As it they are both likely extremely slow to disperse, translocation is the best way to get them to new sites. Bryum cyclophyllum is CR in UK due to being found at only one site, and translocation could make its future more secure and lift it to a lower threat of extinction across Europe (but remain Least Concern in Europe for now). BC and RC are on the Scottish Biodiversity list, and are identified as ‘needing conservation action’, and ‘avoid negative impacts’.
Plants were collected on 29.09.2023, bulked up in an exsitu population at the RBGE, and then planted out into 2 Scottish Water Sites near Stirling in Summer of 2025. A second tranche of planting is due to take place in Summer 2026. Initial monitoring in the autumn of 2025 suggested that most of the plants had established, but the most important milestone will be whether they return after the flood phase of their habitat. They will not be identifiable until autumn 2026.