Exploring functional traits of Canga liverworts along different mesohabitats: insights from a threatened ecosystem and underexplored plants in Brazil

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction Brazil’s Canga ecosystems, characterised by ironstone outcrops, face increasing threats from mining activities. Predominantly located in Minas Gerais’ Iron Quadrangle region, these ecosystems are notable for their diversity of bryophytes, especially liverworts. Despite their ecological significance, comprehensive studies on liverworts in Cangas are scarce, leaving a gap in understanding their responses to environmental factors. Methods We analysed the organisation of life traits in liverworts across three distinct Canga mesohabitats: exposed areas, shrub associations and tree associations. We hypothesised that these life traits are distinctly structured according to the mesohabitat, ranging from exposed to shaded. Key results Our survey recorded 714 specimens, encompassing 73 species and 12 families, with Lejeuneaceae, Frullaniaceae and Metzgeriaceae being the most represented families. Frullania brasiliensis Raddi emerged as the most abundant species. Mesohabitats differed primarily in terms of solar radiation and temperature. Life traits of communities did not correlate with mesohabitat types. Instead, liverworts formed five functional groups based on family, asexual reproduction, growth forms, spore germination types and leaf colour. Conclusions This study highlights the ecological heterogeneity and significant liverwort diversity of Brazilian Cangas, emphasising the importance of diverse strategies in population maintenance. Prioritising the functional diversity of liverworts is essential in conservation strategies for Cangas, focusing on preserving diverse mesohabitats.