First insights into the distribution and ecology of Tortula schimperi in Austria

Tortula schimperi was described in 2005, but knowledge on its distribution and ecology is still fragmentary for Europe. Here we present data on its distribution and ecology in Austria based on a revision of 122 herbarium specimens of Tortula subulata and its synonyms. Locations of Tortula schimperi were most common in the eastern part of Austria. The examined specimens of Tortula schimperi and Tortula subulata differed significantly in terms of altitude and climate (annual precipitation sum, mean annual temperature). Tortula schimperi exhibited a much narrower ecological amplitude with emphasis on drier and warmer sites and slightly acidic substrates at lower altitudes. The study provides the first data on Tortula schimperi in Austria, which can serve as a basis for further investigations throughout Europe.