Bryophyte ecology

bryosphere

bryophyte layer between atmosphere and soil

ecosystem functions of bryophytes (3)

erosion control

surface roughening

water infiltration

Carbon sequestration

N fixation

organic matter input

microhabitat creation

seed germination niches

albedo

soil insulation

dust trapping

ecosystem roles of bryophytes

primary producers in nutrient-poor (oligotrophic) regions

prevent erosion and help humus formation

capture and then slow release of nutrients

intercept and release water, modifying hydrological regime

carbon sequestration

prevent permafrost thawing

inhibit/support establishment of vascular plant seedlings

Paludification

Sphagnum species "actively" raise the surface water level, leading to the expansion of peatlands.

The mosses overgrow surrounding vegetation, which eventually "drowns.

peatlands

bryophytes dominate

Sphagnum retains vast amounts of water within hyalocytes and through capillary action

temperate and tropical rainforests

epiphytic mosses account for less than 0.5% of total biomass

can intercept and hold up to 15 tons of water per hectare