Daugavpils University postdoc Dr biol. Anna Mežaka in February 23rd gave a lecture online about epiphytic bryophyte and lichenmetapopulation study for students of Daugavpils University (DU) bachelor study programme “Environmental Science”.

In a lecture also took part faculty of Environmental Science and Chemistry, DU Natural Sciences and Mathematics as well as researchers of Ecology Department, Institute of Life Sciences and Technology, DU. Results obtained from the project: ”Epiphyte metapopulation dynamics in boreo-nemoral forest landscape (project nr. 1.1.1.2/16/I/001)” were presented.

n the introduction, Anna Mežaka was explaining the importanc of epiphytic bryophyte and lichen metapopulations in nature conservation and biodiversity maintenance in forest ecosystems. Then Anna Mežaka was explaining studies which she was implemented with colleagues and students about rare epiphytic bryophyte and lichen ecology from level of species individual to landscape level. Data from National databases as well as from field and laboratory work were analyzed during the study. Variables affecting rare epiphytic bryophyte and lichen metapopulation distribution were analyzed in a forest stand and landscape level. Spatial analysis of epiphytic model species and evaluation of their dispersal abilities in forest stands were done. In a field epiphytic modelspecies were transplanted on different quality substrates in different quality habitats. In addition, moss growing experiments in vitro from spores were done. Discussions were developed during the lecture.

In the evening of the February 23rd, Anna Mežaka presented study results also in International forest biodiversity and botany online seminar, where took part students and academic staff from Institute of Life Sciences and Technology, DU, University of Latvia and  Institute for Forest Research, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue. New discussions and exchange of ideas about future co-operation developed during the seminar.

The study results contribute in fundamental science and also conduce in nature conservation and sustainable forest management in boreo-nemoral forest landscape.

Detailed information can be found here: https://du.lv/en/project/epiphyte-metapopulation-dynamics-in-boreo-nemoral-forest-landscape/

Contact information: Dr biol. Anna Mežaka (email: anna.mezaka@du.lv)