The influence of water and nutrient availability on bryophyte communities in continental Antarctica

The Windmill Islands region is believed to be becoming more arid as global climate change progresses. The presence of moribund moss communities in the area are thought to be a visual indication of previous wetter environments, and currently more arid conditions.

We aim to test whether this is the case by determining the effect of increased levels of moisture and nutrients on moss communities. We are also investigating the physiological response of three moss species to desiccation. An understanding of these physiological and ecological phenomena is crucial for predicting how Antarctic plant communities will respond to global climate change.