Department of Biological Sciences, University of Waikato, MSc

Conservation and biodiversity of the Antarctic bryophytes

Abundant morphological variation of the Bryum species of Antarctic bryophytes has meant only a superficial assessment of the biodiversity within this group has been possible. The 17 species of Bryum described in Antarctica since 1820 have now been subsumed into only two silver Bryum species. Such reductions in the floristic inventory of Antarctica could be potentially devastating to isolated species no longer recognised as unique entities as conservation efforts are not directed towards such groups as they are not recognised as requiring careful management. The focus of this project was on the conservation of the biodiversity within the Antarctic silver Bryum species. Research into the taxonomical delimitations, phylogenetic relationships and biogeography of these briophytes facilitated our comprehension of the extent of biodiversity in this region.

Publications
Stevens, M. I., Hunger, S. A., Hills, S. F. K. and Gemmill, C. E. C. 2007. Phantom hitch-hikers mislead estimates of genetic variation in Antarctic mosses.Plant Systematic and Evolution 263: 191-201.

Hunger, S.A. A study on molecular systematics of the Antarctic Bryum species and the development of microsatellite DNA markers in Bryum argenteum Hedw. M.Sc., University of Waikato. 2000.