Bryophytes collected in Lesotho, the Natal Drakensberg and the Orange Free State, southern Africa

Abstract

Bryophytes collected during a month-long expedition (January-February, 1995) to Lesotho and the Natal Drakensberg are documented. Preliminary visits had indicated that the area was probably bryologically rich, but under-explored and threatened. The principal objectives were to survey bryophytes in the last remaining substantial area of woodland in Lesotho and in high altitude bogs, as both are ecologically and economically important and under extreme threat, to assess their bryological importance, to make conservation recommendations and to report to the relevant authorities. Other important bryophyte habitats in Lesotho were also explored. Woodland in the Natal Drakensberg was studied for comparative purposes and a small collection was made from a single site in the Orange Free State. A brief introductory section gives a summary of the geology and vegetation of the region. The principal bryophyte habitats and communities studied are described, including lowland sandstone, lowland riverine, ephemeral, austro-mediterranean Leucosidea woodland, upland basalt, bogs and mixed valley/ravine woodland in the Natal Drakensberg. Phytogeographical patterns are discussed, with particular attention being drawn to the Antarctic and sub-Antarctic elements in the Drakensberg bryophyte flora. The species recorded during the expedition are then listed, with relevant locality and habitat details. Twelve species (2 hepatics, 10 mosses) are new to Africa, with a further 1 (moss) new to sub-Saharan Africa, 21 (12 hepatics, 9 mosses) new to southern Africa, 84 (43 hepatics, 41 mosses) new to Lesotho, 2 (mosses) new to South Africa and 3 (1 hepatic, 2 mosses) new to Natal but recorded previously elsewhere in South Africa. The more striking range extensions are tabulated for ease of reference. In conclusion, the Leucosidea woodland and the high altitude are of extreme importance for bryophytes and immediate action should be taken to ensure their conservation. The high altitude basalt exposures of the Drakensberg are also of extreme importance but under considerably less threat.