Unveiling the rich diversity of epiphytic bryophytes of moist temperate deciduous forest in the Western Himalayas of India.

Epiphytic bryophytes, which inhabit the branches and trunks of trees, play a salient role in the forest ecosystem. Their substantial biomass and ability to maintain canopy moisture contribute significantly to ecological functions. They serve as indicators of forest succession dynamics and helps to compensate for nitrogen loss in forest environments. By colonizing tree bark, they retain and intercept water, providing favourable conditions for subsequent epiphytic vascular plants. The present study aimed to explore the floristic diversity of epiphytic bryophytes of the Western Himalayas, India. A thorough survey was carried out during the winter season (November, 2023) across various sites within the study area, encompassing a range of elevation gradients. Different host tree species were selected through stratified random sampling with strata classified into tree base, lower and upper trunk, and lower and upper crown. Epiphytic bryophyte samples were collected by employing 10x10 cm² quadrats. The samples were stored in zip lock bags and brought to the laboratory for further identification. The study revealed a remarkable diversity of epiphytic bryophytes in the Western Himalayan region. A total of 99 epiphytic bryophyte species distributed in 67 genera and 35 families were recorded. Among the 35 families, 28 families belong to mosses and seven families belong to the liverworts. The dominant families were Meteoriaceae and Mniaceae. On the contrary, only one species was recorded from Bruchiaceae, Leucodontaceae, Leucomiaceae, Orthostichellaceae, Pterobryaceae, Ptychomniaceae, Regmatodontaceae, Rhytidiaceae, Scapaniaceae, Sematophyllaceae, Cryphaeacae, and Lesakeaceae. Moreover, Quercus and Rhododendron tree species were found to have the most diverse epiphytic bryophytes. This research observed a diverse array of epiphytic bryophytes, reflecting rich ecological complexity and providing various ecosystem services. Additionally, the study contributes to the Western Himalayan bryophyte flora and provides baseline data for future ecological and biodiversity conservation.