| The present study tested the hypothesis that species richness and composition of epiphytic microlichens can be used to support the phytosociological differentiation between Caatinga and Brejos de Altitude, as exemplified by the Muralha Reserve (Caatinga) and the Parque Estadual Mata do Pau Ferro (Brejo de Altitude), in the state of Paraíba, Brazil. A total of 755 lichen samples were collected, comprising 18 families, 42 genera and 111 species of epiphytic, corticolous microlichens. Overall species richness was higher in the Caatinga, with 67 species, compared to the Brejo, with 46 species. Species richness per sample was significantly higher in the Caatinga compared to the Brejo. Taxonomic composition also differed significantly between the two areas, with... |
