Ecological Risk Screening Summary - Peacock Moss (Selaginella uncinata) - Uncertain Risk

Selaginella uncinata, Peacock Moss, is a clubmoss that is native to southern and central China and Vietnam. The species is available for purchase online in the United States, but no species-specific regulations were found and there is no information available regarding popularity in trade. This species grows best in shaded areas and is useful for medicinal purposes. This species has been introduced to the United States and established itself in the southeastern States, from South Carolina to Arkansas and along the Gulf Coast. It has also been introduced into other areas of Asia outside its native range. The History of Invasiveness for Selaginella uncinata is classified as Data Deficient due to a lack of information available regarding the species’ impacts of introductions. The climate matching analysis for the contiguous United States indicates establishment concern for this species. The highest climate matches occurred in the Southeast and the lowest matches along the Pacific Coast. The Certainty of Assessment is classified as Low due to the overall lack of information regarding this species. The Overall Risk Assessment Category for Selaginella uncinata in the contiguous United States is Uncertain.

Species that are considered uncertain risk need a more in-depth assessment beyond the Risk Summary to better define the species’ risk to U.S. environments.