Methods for monitoring threatened bryophytes

Monitoringis an indispensable tool for assessment of the state of species both locally and globally. The monitoringof bryophytespecies has started quite recently and there is need for uniform methods that can be applied in different countries to get comparable results to give a basis for more effective species conservation. Here we present three general monitoringmethods that are suitable for all European bryophytes. The method of permanent squares is used for long-lived species inhabiting stable communities on the ground or large rocks. The method of counting separated substrate units is used for species inhabiting tree trunks, boulders or large pieces of decaying wood. The method of sampling is used for short-lived species in unstable communities and for species that are difficult to identify with a hand-lens. The selection of species and sites to be monitoredis discussed. Assessment of the current conservational state of the species depends on the state of habitats at monitoringplots that are defined through character and rate of threats, and change of population size compared with previous and first monitoringevents. The three monitoringmethods are illustrated with examples based on Estonian monitoringexperiences. Suggestions of monitoringmethods for bryophytespecies belonging to the EU Habitat Directiveare given.