The distribution of epiphytes over environmental and habitat gradients in tropical and subtropical Australia

Epiphytes in Australia's Gondwana Rainforests exhibit predictable distributions influenced primarily by moisture and light gradients, with vascular epiphytes showing species richness peaks at mid-elevations (500-700 m) and distinct partitioning over continuous light and vapour pressure deficit (VPD) gradients. Unlike mosses, which display uniform distribution across height zones, vascular epiphytes, such as orchids and ferns, occupy specific microclimatic niches, suggesting fine-scale habitat patchiness within host trees. The study also found that drought-mitigating traits in vascular epiphytes correlate with xeric conditions, while broader zonation systems like the Johansson zones may overlook intra-zone microhabitat variations. These findings highlight the critical role of microclimate in epiphyte survival and underscore the need for further research to mitigate biodiversity loss under climate change.

Sanger, J. C. (2016). The distribution of epiphytes over environmental and habitat gradients in tropical and subtropical Australia [University of Tasmania]. https://doi.org/10.25959/23238698