Floristic Composition and species Richness of Bryophytes along an Elevational Gradient in Annapurna Base Camp Trail, Kaski, Nepal

Abstract

The research aimed to document species composition, richness, and habitat distribution of bryophytes along the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trail, spanning elevations from 1,650 meters to 4,130 meters. A systematic random sampling method was employed to collect bryophytes specimens from nine strategically selected stations along the elevational gradient. The survey identified 91 bryophyte species across 39 families and 62 genera, with mosses (58 species) being the most prevalent, thereafter by liverworts (30 species) and hornworts (3 species). The Bryaceae and Aytoniaceae families were the most diverse, each represented by eight species. The study revealed a hump-shaped curve in species richness and diversity, peaking at mid-elevations (around 2500 meters) and declining at both lower and higher elevations. Habitat analysis showed that soil was the most preferred substrate (31%), followed by rocks (28%), trees (22%), soil and rock combinations (15%), and tree and rock combinations (4%). This study recommends extensive bryophyte surveys in underexplored areas in Annapurna Conservation Area with relation to different environmental variables. This study provides valuable insights into the bryophyte diversity along the ABC trail, contributing to the broader understanding of bryophyte ecology and conservation in high-elevation regions. Keywords: Bryophytes, Species Richness, Distribution, Elevational Gradient, Annapurna Base Camp.