Abstract
We compared the richness, diversity, and composition of epiphytic bryophytes in a Brazilian Atlantic Forest remnant along zones of height within host trees (vertical gradient) and edge to interior (horizontal gradient). We established five classes of edge distance, and within each one, three host trees were selected (15 in total). Samples were collected in five height zones within host trees from the base to the top. The highest average values of richness and diversity were found in the trunk zone. There was no significant difference of bryophyte total richness and diversity along edge distance and vertical zones. However, the guilds of light tolerance displayed particularities regarding vertical zonation. Shade epiphytes decreased significantly along vertical gradients, whereas sun epiphytes increased, demonstrating a compositional vertical stratification within host trees. Thus, bryophyte distribution in both understories and canopies is more related to microenvironmental conditions than landscape characteristics such as edge distance. Moreover, the features of the Atlantic Forest associated with the environmental heterogeneity of the remnant may play an important role in the lack of gradient in species' composition from the edge to the interior of the forest.
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