Distribution of epiphytic bryophyte species was studied in Woodland Key Habitats (WKH) and in managed forest stands in the NorthEast Latvia (district Gulbene). In total, 32 epiphytic bryophyte species were found in six WKH stands. Five endangered/threatened bryophyte species (Anomodon longifolius, Homalia trichomanoides, Jamesoniella autumnalis, Lejeunea cavifolia, Neckera pennata), that are listed in the Red Data Book of Latvia were recorded. The relation between the total and endangered/threatened epiphytic bryophyte species richness and composition with substrate factors (phorophyte species, diameter at breast height (DBH), shading, and tree bark pH) was studied. The most important factors regarding epiphytic bryophyte species cover, composition and richness were found to be tree species, DBH, bark pH and forest shading. WKH indicator species richness showed significant relationship only with tree species. Tree species was one of the most important factors explaining epiphytic species distribution.
<span lang="EN">Nowadays human impact to habitats and species are stronger then ever before. Latvia is typical example of fragmented landscape, where forest patches are mixed with agricultural land and waterbodies. Latgale is one of typical such a fragmented landscape parts of Latvia. Around 6.41 % of Latgalian forests were evaluated as Woodland Key Habitats (WKHs) or potential WKHs (P)WKHs after WKH inventory. In total 16 WKH types, suitable for bryophyte and lichen indicator species existence were identified in Latgale. (P)WKH type, forest stand age and area were significant factors influencing bryophyte and lichen specialist and indicator species richness in forest stand level. WKH status did not provide any official conservation status for habitats or species based on current legislation in Latvia. Therefore establishment of conservation areas as microreserves for habitats and species and Nature Reserves in areas, with high (P)WKH density is an effective tool for their long-term conservation in Latgale. Further scientific studies of bryophytes, lichens and WKHs are necessary for planning the best conservation scenarios taking into account also forest ecosystem services. </span>
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