Bryophyte conservation in Scotland

Summary Scotland has an internationally important bryophyte flora. The oceanic element in our flora is the most important, with the bryophyte communities of broadleaf woodland and montane heath being of particular significance. Until recently, all management for bryophyte conservation has been incidental; with bryophytes possibly benefiting from measures for the protection of the habitats in which they occur. Conservation interest in bryophytes as a result of wildlife legislation and the production of action plans has given an impetus to species conservation. So far this has been limited to baseline surveys, necessary because of the lack of knowledge of the status of most of the species involved. The small size and critical nature of the plants means that even basic survey work is problematic, the problems differing from species to species. Implementation of the action plans will need more autecological studies of some species and possibly some direct action for a small number with critical populations. Lack of knowledge at the beginning of the Biodiversity Action Plan process meant that a number of species of conservation concern were overlooked and a mechanism needs to be found to include these in future action. Future work on the conservation of bryophytes may be hampered by a shortage of bryologists.