Importance of Bark Physicochemical Properties in an Epiphytic Bryophyte Community within a Temperate Deciduous Broadleaf Forest

Epiphytic bryophytes are important components of forest ecosystems and play important roles in maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem function. However, the main factors driving epiphytic bryophyte diversity remain unclear. We collected the tree epiphytic bryophytes from a one-hectare plot within a temperate deciduous broadleaf forest (China). Canonical correspondence analyses and Mantel tests were used to establish linear regression models and thus dissect the effects of environmental variables (topography, light and bark physicochemical properties) on the species diversity, functional diversity, and phylogenetic diversity of epiphytic bryophytes. The relationship between environmental variables and epiphytic bryophyte diversity was analyzed using piecewise structural equation modeling. Results showed that the physicochemical properties of the bark directly influenced the species diversity and phylogenetic diversity of the epiphytic bryophytes. The physical and chemical properties of bark also indirectly affected the functional diversity of the epiphytic bryophytes. Elucidation of the factors driving epiphytic bryophyte diversity provides insights into their conservation.

Automated summary

This study investigated the factors driving the diversity of epiphytic bryophytes in a temperate deciduous broadleaf forest in China. The results suggested that the physicochemical properties of bark directly influenced the species diversity and phylogenetic diversity of the epiphytic bryophytes, and also indirectly affected their functional diversity. Understanding the factors driving epiphytic bryophyte diversity is crucial for their conservation.