Bryoflora of temporary ponds in the Mediterranean Basin: hints for management and conservation

In the Mediterranean region temporary ponds are classified among the most biologically and biogeographically interesting ecosystems. Despite the important ecological functions of bryophytes in those fragile environments, they are neglected or undervalued in most management actions. We surveyed the bryoflora composition and distribution within 33 Mediterranean temporary ponds in Sardinia (Italy). The bryoflora is composed by 139 taxa, (119 Bryophyta, 19 Marchantiophyta and 1 Antocerothophyta), accounting for 28% of the total Island bryoflora. Among those, Petalophyllum ralfsii, Cephaloziella calyculata and Fossombronia pusilla are critically endangered and Riccia huebeneriana and Hypnum revolutum var. revolutum, are reported for the first time in Sardinia. Three belts were recognized in temporary ponds: a central belt, an intermediate belt, and an outer belt. Species showed a spatial pattern within the temporary ponds, from species Pottiaceae and Brachytheciaceae, with the life strategy colonist and perennial, to species Ricciaceae with life strategy annual shuttle. Species as Scleropodium touretti and Tortella squarrosa are significantly associated with the outer belt, however the Riccia canaliculata is significantly associated with the central belt, because it occurs in these belt only. Those information are useful to build up a scientifically sound knowledge useful for future effective conservation actions.