Bryophytes of the Mascarenes

Syrrhopodon mahensis, from the moss family Calymperaceae

Syrrhopodon mahensis, from the moss family Calymperaceae

Museum staff are currently investigating the diverse bryophyte communities on Réunion Island in the Indian Ocean. Particular attention is being given to the large and ecologically important moss families Calymperaceae and Orthotrichaceae.

Having an accurate, up-to-date understanding of the bryophyte flora of Réunion and its neighbouring islands will be an important step towards ensuring the survival of the rich natural habitats in this region of the Old World tropics.

Macromitrium mauritianum, from the moss family Orthotrichaceae

Macromitrium mauritianum, from the moss family Orthotrichaceae

For this project we have been working in collaboration with:

  • Université de la Réunion
  • La Réunion Parc National
  • British Bryological Society - Tropical Bryology Group (BBS-TBG)

More information can be found on the BBS–TBG project pages.

Botany staff involved in this project:
  • L Ellis
  • J Wilbraham