Identification notes
In open moorland, a quick glance at this species when it lacks capsules is likely to make the bryologist think of Dicranella heteromalla, which also likes acidic soils. Even the names are similar.
Capsule-bearing plants have an important difference: Ditrichum heteromallum has erect capsules whereas those of Dicranella heteromalla are inclined. A closer look at the leaves will also reveal the classic Ditrichum shape – expanded leaf base contracting higher up into a long tapering tip consisting mainly of nerve.
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