Sphagnum fuscum hummocks. Known occurrence of "Sphagnum fuscus" are on the map above. The moss inhabits boreal forests and marshlands primarily, and is more likely to be found in colder climates. The moss is also capable of inhabiting areas of relatively high elevation. In recent studies performed in Eastern Europe, it was found that stable carbon and oxygen isotope ratios in α-cellulose of "Sphagnum fuscum" stems subsampled from hummocks and peat plateau profiles are useful indicators for summer temperature and winter precipitation at decadal to millennial timescales. In another study conducted in Alberta, Canada, it was found that "S. fuscum" serves as
Sphagnum fuscum a short stalk of around 1-2mm, with a brown capsule of about 1-1.5mm. "Sphagnum fuscum" prefers older, drier bogs to inhabit and will formulate hummocks in such conditions. In bogs dominated by black spruce, "S. fuscum" will form extensive ground cover. On average, "S. fuscum" inhabits more acidic soils with pH ranging from 3.6-7.5, and is also able to colonize at high elevations. The moss is circumpolar. "Sphagnum fuscum" faces endangerment across much of the globe. Due to reductions in wetlands and development of these areas, the moss is referred to as “high risk” in Germany, while being on several