Challenges of Mediterraneanisation for the preservation of bryophyte diversity in Iberian rivers

Abstract

The Mediterraneanisation of the Iberian Peninsula is resulting in the increasing frequency of intermittent rivers and ephemeral streams. These alterations in water regimes can have a negative impact on the composition of aquatic bryophyte communities, key organisms for the productivity and functioning of river ecosystems. Furthermore, human activities ─construction of barriers, pollution, etc.─ are making the conservation of these communities increasingly difficult. Therefore, future actions should focus on the renaturalisation of aquatic ecosystems, seeking to restore their ecological functions and river dynamics, without neglecting human needs and promoting environmental education. Also, both a more in-depth knowledge of the aquatic bryoflora and the development of protective legislation acknowledging its ecological importance in the Iberian rivers should be fostered, together with the responsible and proactive management of river environments.