Epiphytic bryophytes and lichens in Graz and Podgorica (Austria and Montenegro)

A comparative study of epiphytic bryophytes and lichens in Graz, Austria, and Podgorica, Montenegro, revealed distinct species distributions and coverage patterns. While Graz exhibited a significantly higher mean epiphytic cover, particularly for lichens, Podgorica showed greater bryophyte diversity and cover. The research identified five urban habitat types—parks, garden city, residential areas, industrial areas, and river-adjacent zones—and found significant variation in species numbers between different tree species, though trunk circumference did not impact species richness. Bryophytes favored northern and western exposures on tree trunks, unlike lichens. Notably, five species were recorded for the first time in Montenegro: Agonimia opuntiella, Caloplaca cerinelloides, Candelariella viae-lacteae, Catapyrenium psoromoides, and Mycobilimbia epixanthoides. The study employed a standardized sampling approach across 165 trees in Graz and 161 in Podgorica, providing insights into urban biodiversity dynamics.

Sündhofer, R., Mayrhofer, H., Werth, S., Dragićević, S., & Berg, C. (2021). Epiphytic bryophytes and lichens in Graz and Podgorica (Austria and Montenegro). Herzogia, 34(2). https://doi.org/10.13158/heia.34.2.2021.299