Current knowledge of the moss flora of Sub-Saharan Africa: Biodiversity insights, herbarium records, and ongoing research.

Mosses are the least documented group of plants across Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite their ecological importance, bryophyte diversity remains largely overlooked, reflecting pronounced geographical sampling biases, underrepresentation in herbaria, and a clear research and conservation gap compared to more conspicuous plant groups. In my presentation, I will synthesize current knowledge on the moss flora of sub-Saharan Africa, drawing on herbarium records to highlight historical trends and emerging biodiversity insights. Particular attention will be given to ongoing research in Madagascar’s high mountain ecosystems, which host exceptional but poorly documented bryophyte communities. Additionally, I will share personal experiences in conducting fieldwork in Madagascar, including exciting biodiversity finds and encounters with unique and interesting local rituals performed to ensure safe passage.

Speaker: Lova Marline, PhD (Research Associate, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University)