An overview of bryophytes in Western Ghat

Abstract

The bryophytes of the Western Ghats are a vital component of the biodiversity and ecological functioning. Their conservation is essential not only for preserving the unique flora of the Western Ghats but also for maintaining the ecological balance of the region. Research, habitat protection and public awareness are key to ensuring the survival of the important plants. Mosses, belonging to the class Bryopsida, are a significant component of the bryophyte flora in the Western Ghats which are small, non-vascular plants that found in a wide range of habitats within the Western Ghats, from the lowland rainforests to the high-altitude montane regions. It plays a critical role in the ecology of the region, contributing to soil formation, water retention and providing microhabitats for various organisms. Liverworts, belonging to the division Marchantiophyta, are a significant group of non-vascular plants, often overlooked due to their small size and play an essential role in the ecology of the region. Liverworts are among the earliest land plants and thrive in the moist, shaded environments that characterize the Western Ghats.