Some Observations on the Epiphytic Moss Flora of Trees in Argyll

Abstract

THE, purpose of this investigation, carried out in July 1934, was the comparative study of the moss flora on different species of trees growing under different environmental conditions. The locality chosen, Achnacloich in Argyll, is very favourable for the study of epiphytic bryophytes and lichens on account of the oceanic conditions, cool winds and heavy rainfall, which persist through most of the year, as the prevailing moisture-carrying west winds come in from the Atlantic. The district round Achnacloich is very well wooded, extensive plantations being in existence on the Achnacloich estate, as well as much wood which appears natural. The state forest (Fearnoch Forest) is slightly to the south-east of Achnacloich. The great amount of free water in the neighbourhood, in the form of lochs, rivers and burns of all sizes, and the dense wood, allied to and correlated with the heavy rainfall make a remarkably suitable habitat for mosses on the trees. The moss covering is in some cases quite extraordinary, and on some of the oaks moss and lichen together cover the entire bark, from quite small twigs down to the base of the trunk. The results of the investigation given below are for mosses only. Specimens of lichens and leafy liverworts were taken at the same time, and statistics as to their occurrence and frequency obtained in similar detail to those for mosses, but these results have not yet been worked out. Trees of different species were chosen, and an attempt was made to study them in different habitats. Detailed observations were made for each individual tree studied, including the average height and diameter, the altitude (as shown