Patterns and drivers of lichen diversity in managed forests

Juri NASCIMBENE (Trieste): Lichens are a species rich component of the forest biota and the improvement of lichen diversity by conservation-oriented forest management is likely to benefit forest functions since lichens play an important role in the forest water-cycle, in nutrient cycling, and are a crucial component in forest food-webs. Moreover, several species are facing a severe extinction risk and need adequate conservation. Epiphytic lichen diversity is related with forest structure and dynamics. Several environmental factors relevant to the dispersal, establishment, and maintenance of epiphytic lichens are affected by forest management. The analysis of diversity patterns at different spatial scales combined with the elucidation of driving factors and background processes may contribute relevant information for refining conservation measures in productively managed forests.