Bryophyte diversity in the Peneda-Gerês National Park (Portugal): selecting Important Plant Areas (IPA) based on a new survey and past records

The Peneda-Gerês National Park (PNPG) in North-western Portugal has been the subject of many bryological studies although there remain unstudied areas. We here present a summary of current knowledge using data from recent fieldwork and past data which comprises ca. 11000 records. Using this data twelve Important Plant Areas (IPAs) were selected. The PNPG is an area exceptionally rich in bryophytes as shown from current species richness distribution maps. There has been a significant increase in the level of bryophyte of the PNPG since 1980. From recent fieldwork, two new species to Portugal were found and fourteen species are reported as new to this National Park. Future studies in relatively unknown areas will most likely lead to the discovery of further bryophytes of conservation importance. The IPAs mapped can be useful in guiding conservation planning. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]