Distribution, ecology and conservation of bryoflora in the Mediterranean temporary ponds

Mediterranean temporary ponds are small, shallow water bodies, isolated from permanent water bodies, which undergo a periodic cycle of flooding and drought. These ephemeral environments are considered to be amongst the most biologically and biogeographically interesting habitats; in Europe, they are recognised as habitats of Community Interest. Despite their important ecological functions, bryophytes are neglected or underrated in most projects addressing the management of fragile environments, such as damp habitats. The main outcome for this study is to bridge the gap of information on bryophytes in the Mediterranean temporary ponds regarding i) the floristic, biogeographic and ecological knowledge of the bryophytic component in these ephemeral habitats and their distribution in the Mediterranean basin ii) the local distribution of bryophytes within the ponds (outer, central, inner) according to their tolerance to floods iii) the first analysis on the diaspore banks dynamics in wet environments that are driven by species traits and microhabitat characteristics, that can give information on the fast (re)establishment of species when natural conditions are favourable.