Species turnover of corticolous bryophyte assemblages over 15 years in an Australian subtropical cloud forest

A 15-year study of corticolous bryophyte assemblages in the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area reveals significant species turnover, particularly among liverworts (43–62%), despite limited changes in overall species richness. Liverwort communities exhibit strong spatial patterns linked to orographic moisture exposure from south-easterly winds, suggesting microclimatic factors drive their assemblages more than mosses. The study posits that temporal fluctuations in moisture inputs from orographic clouds—undetectable via precipitation records—are likely responsible for the observed directional changes in liverwort communities. This research highlights the vulnerability of subtropical cloud forests to climatic shifts and underscores the need for long-term ecological monitoring.

Pearce, E., Schmidt, S., Franks, A. J., & Shoo, L. P. (2015). Species turnover of corticolous bryophyte assemblages over 15 years in an Australian subtropical cloud forest. Austral Ecology, 40(8), 877–885. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/aec.12268