Local variation in bryophyte and macro-lichen cover and diversity in a montane forest

Abstract

The patterns of cover and species diversity (richness and composition) of macro-lichens, bryophytes and vascular plants are described for a Canadian montane forest. The forests of the study area are highly valued both for wood production and for the terrestrial lichen that is a vital part of the diet of the endangered woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou Gmelin). In 180 6.5 m x 6.5 m plots, we found lichens were abundant, but the ground layer was dominated by feather moss. Species richness is similar for the three groups at close to 10 species per plot for each group. Differences in species composition are small with any two sites having at least 50% of their vascular plants, 60% of their bryophytes, and 70% of their lichens in common. Comparisons of the 10% most open and 10% densest sites revealed that more open sites have greater lichen cover, higher elevation, older trees, more vascular plant species, less moderately decayed logs, and lower cover of Pleurozium schreberi, the dominant feather moss. However, the data are inconclusive with respect to predicted changes post-harvesting, since none of the correlations is particularly strong.