Study of the bryological flora at the archaeological site of Chellah, Morocco

A study at the UNESCO-listed Chellah archaeological site in Rabat, Morocco, identified 20 species of bryophytes contributing to significant biodeterioration. Four dominant families—Pottiaceae, Brachyceciaceae, Funariaceae, and Bryaceae—accounted for 65% of the total bryological flora, with three species newly recorded in the region: Entosthodon pulchellus, Dydimodon fallax, and Trichostomum crispulum. The research involved systematic sampling across autumn 2014, spring 2015, and winter 2016. Bryophytes were found to initiate soil formation on substrates, compromising material durability. This study highlights the role of bryophytes in cultural heritage degradation and provides a baseline for further conservation efforts.

Elharech, M., Benharbit, M., Magri, N., Benharbit, O., Zidane, L., Douira, A., Belahbib, N., & Dahmani, J. (2017). Study of the bryological flora at the archaeological site of Chellah, Morocco. International Journal of Environment, Agriculture and Biotechnology, 2(4), 1631–1643. https://doi.org/10.22161/ijeab/2.4.22