World Heritage Site:
Vatican City
Publication Year:
2023
Publication Type:
Article
Publication Identifier:
WHE72D0C1F64B
Summary
Italy's bryophyte diversity has expanded by 29 taxa in the last three years, bringing the total to 1273 species (including subspecies and varieties), with the Alpine regions showing the highest biodiversity. This updated checklist, compiled from literature, herbarium data, and recent observations, reveals that hornworts and liverworts account for 301 species across 55 families, while mosses dominate with 919 species in 77 families. The study also highlights regional variations, noting Tuscany's richness among Apennine regions and the medium biodiversity of Sardinia and Sicily due to their geomorphological diversity. Critical taxonomic notes and synonyms are included for clarity. The research underscores the importance of continued exploration, as some regions' low bryophyte records may reflect insufficient study.
Citation
Aleffi, M., Cogoni, A., & Poponessi, S. (2023). An updated checklist of the bryophytes of Italy, including the Republic of San Marino and Vatican City State. Plant Biosystems - an International Journal Dealing with All Aspects of Plant Biology, 157(6), 1259–1307. https://doi.org/10.1080/11263504.2023.2284136