Research into the role of interspecific trait variation in biogeochemical cycling has mushroomed for vascular plants over the past decade. In contrast, parallel research in the world of bryophytes and lichens is still in its infancy. This knowledge gap needs to be filled with some urgency, given the key roles of bryophytes and lichens in carbon, nutrient and water cycling and the drastic anticipated changes therein due to climatic and landuse change. Through selected data-rich examples based on empirical work I will demonstrate the potential for interspecific trait variation in bryophytes and lichens to affect key aspects of biogeochemical cycles.
Results/Conclusions
I will demonstrate how higher-latitude species vary greatly in (1) nutrient cycling parameters such as di-nitrogen fixation rate, foliar nutrient concentrations (supporting photosynthesis) and efficiency of nutrient resorption from senescing tissues; (2) carbon turnover through variation in decomposability of dead tissues and flammability, respectively; (3) their effects on soil moisture and temperature regimes with consequences for soil carbon and nutrient dynamics. This talk is an open invitation to get measuring on these and further cryptogam effect traits and functions in various ecosystems worldwide.