Abstract

Diversity and distribution of lichens and bryophytes in a native mixed forest in the locality of El Colorado, Central Chile were studied. The bryophytes and lichens were collected from as many different available substrates. A total of 58 taxa, 30 mosses, 5 hepatics and 23 lichens were determined. Of these, 22 are new reports for the Maule region, Chile: 13 mosses, 5 liverworts and 4 lichens. For each taxon, the worldwide, continental and insular distribution, ecology and collection number are given. On the basis of the available information it is clear that there is a need for the protection of El Colorado locality, which constitutes a refuge for the conservation of lichens and bryophytes. © 2006 J. Cramer in der Gebrüder Borntraeger Verlagsbuchhandlung.