Bridging Experimentation and Practice in Propagation and Ex Situ Conservation: Studies in Threatened Moss Drepanocladus sendtneri (Amblystegiaceae)

Abstract

The rare and threatened pleurocarpous semi-aquatic moss Drepanocladus sendtneri (Amblystegiaceae) was the focus of an integrative conservation approach aimed at improving knowledge of its biological and ecological characteristics and enhancing its survival prospects. The results provide insights into both the axenic and xenic propagation of this species, as well as its biomass production under ex situ conditions. The KNOP medium proved to be the most suitable for propagation, particularly when demeristemized shoot tips were cultured in an upright orientation. Exogenous application of IBA increased the production of new shoots and reduced the time required to obtain substantial biomass under axenic conditions. Following successful acclimatisation to controlled xenic laboratory conditions, the moss was able to fully develop and spread in experimental basins maintained under outdoor botanical garden conditions, with humidity carefully regulated during dry periods. Within one year, a small number of initial plantlets expanded to cover approximately 4 dm², spreading efficiently over rainwater-soaked filter paper covered with an inert plastic mesh. These results provide practical guidance for the production and ex situ maintenance of D. sendtneri, thereby supporting the development and improvement of conservation action plans for this rare and threatened moss species.