18/08/14 - 22/08/14
Learn how to identify aquatic and semi-aquatic bryophytes and how to use them for assessing ecological variation in water quality. This course takes full advantage of an area noted for its fens, bogs, flushes and streams in recognition of the ecological and conservational importance of wetland bryophytes. Varied, though not strenuous, fieldwork each day will provide opportunities to compare mosses and liverworts in an exceptionally wide range of habitats.
Emphasis will be placed on field characteristics, and will be backed up by work in the laboratory, including the use of identification keys. Many of the most significant ecological indicator species will be examined, making use of local limestone, but also including nearby sites in other upland and moorland areas.
Instruction in Sphagnum identification will be fully covered, but prior knowledge of general moss and liverwort identification will be necessary.
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