Research papers of the week – August 14, 2023

Adrian Wysocki; Patryk Czortek; Kamil Konowalik; Jarosław Proćków; Sylwia Wierzcholska

Forest Ecology and Management

Ministerial score = 200.0
Journal Impact Factor (2023) = 3.7 (Q1)

Functional diversity is widely recognised as the key to understanding the role of ecological mechanisms in shaping the patterns of species co-existence across different environmental gradients. Despite research in this area, there is a considerable knowledge gap on the ecological mechanisms that shape the composition of bryophyte communities, especially those at risk. One of the most endangered group of species are usually woodland specialist bryophytes, therefore, understanding the factors determining their occurrence should be a priority. One of the model species belonging to this group is Dicranum viride, a target species of international conservation importance, and of particular interest for forest managers responsible for forest ecosystems protection. We examined the effect of the tree phorophyte species on the realised niche of D. viride in the temperate forest ecosystems. The specific tree species that D. viride inhabits greatly influences its realised niche. Both phorophyte species we examined, i.e. Fagus sylvatica and Carpinus betulus, can sustain the presence of D. viride, but the key determinant is the availability of suitable microhabitats, such as specific combinations of bryophyte species within bark irregularities. Our findings indicate that even in regions where the effects of forest management are noticeable, the preservation of trees with diverse microhabitats facilitate the existence of rare moss species with D. viride as an example. As a moss with a narrow ecological amplitude, D. viride occurrence patterns can be used as a tool in monitoring studies and for improving forest management strategies aimed at harmonising wood production with the conservation of biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. As a result, this information can be significant for conservation strategies, as it highlights the importance of identifying and preserving certain tree species to protect both particular epiphyte communities and individual target species.

DOI:10.1016/j.foreco.2023.121303

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