What does a phytophysiognomic mosaic reveal about mosses and liverworts from the subtropical Atlantic Forest?

A phytophysiognomic mosaic analysis of the Discovery Coast Atlantic Forest Reserves revealed significant bryophyte species richness and endemism, with sandy Restinga forests showing the highest diversity. Approximately 75% of the species and 42% of families were unique to specific phytophysiognomies (humid lowlands, sandy Restinga forests, swampy Restinga forests), indicating elevated floristic differentiation among these environments. The study also found that substrate types significantly influenced bryophyte composition, with mat-forming life forms and corticolous groups being predominant. This research underscores the importance of studying all Atlantic Forest phytophysiognomies for biodiversity conservation and highlights the ecological value of bryophytes as bio-indicators for ecosystem monitoring and restoration.

Dewes, T. d. S., Santos, N. D. d., & Bordin, J. (2021). What does a phytophysiognomic mosaic reveal about mosses and liverworts from the subtropical Atlantic Forest? Acta Botanica Brasilica, 35(4), 517–531. https://doi.org/10.1590/0102-33062020abb0425