Stages of Bryophyte Succession After Fire in Mediterranean Forests (SE Spain)

Abstract

The dynamics of bryophyte vegetation of burnt Mediterranean forests was studied over a period of 3 years, using permanent square plots of 1 M2 set in 9 sites burnt in different years (1989-1970). One site unaffected by fire was used as a control. The sites were located in the Tus and Mundo valleys (Province of Albacete, SE Spain). Floristic richness, bryophyte turf cover and fugacity of the bryophyte species were calculated for each plot. With the data obtained, four bryophyte communities were characterized: colonizing, competing, seasonal and perennial species. A temporal scheme describing three stages of bryophyte succession after fire was constructed: colonizing stage, competing stage (with two phases) and stabilization stage.