Abstract:

Aims: The aim of this article is to update the survey of bryophytes in Gansu Province in order to understand their current status and provide a baseline for the conservation of bryophyte diversity moving forward. 

Method: This bryophyte survey was created by reviewing literature, as well as identifying and examining collected specimen. 

Results: This analysis revealed that a cumulative 846 bryophyte species, belonging to 284 genera and 94 families, have been identified in Gansu Province. Among them, there were195 species of liverworts belonging to 65 genera and 36 families, one species of hornworts belonging to one genus and one family, and 650 species of moss belonging to 218 genera and 57 families. Additionally, seven families had more than 25 species, and 10 genera had more than 15 species. Of the cumulative bryophyte species found in this province, 67 species, 17 genera, and three families were newly recorded. The bryophyte flora was comprised of 41.25% temperate distribution types, 32.98% East Asian distribution types (including endemic distributions in China), and 13.24% tropical distribution types. Of these flora, 53 of the species were endemic to China, one was critically endangered, six were endangered, five were vulnerable, and one was a wild plant of national second-class key protection. 

Conclusions: The investigation of bryophyte in Gansu Province revealed a regional imbalance, and there was a lack of systematic surveys since 2007. To ensure that these invaluable resources are protected and utilized efficiently moving forward, it is recommended to routinely carry out systematic and comprehensive investigations.

Key words: bryophytes, species diversity, biodiversity inventory, new records, Gansu Province