Theoretical Basis
The foundation of this research lies in the principles of community ecology, particularly the idea that abiotic factors, such as soil moisture, act as environmental filters that influence species composition and abundance. Moisture availability is critical for mosses because they lack a vascular system and rely on surface absorption to acquire water and nutrients. This reliance makes them particularly sensitive to changes in environmental conditions.
The research also touches on niche theory, which posits that different species thrive in specific environmental conditions where their physiological and ecological requirements are met. By examining moss species across a gradient of soil moisture, this study investigates how ecological niches are distributed in response to moisture availability.
Ecological Processes
Environmental Filtering – Soil moisture acts as a filter, allowing only species with specific water requirements to establish and thrive in particular zones.
Species Interactions – Mosses may compete for limited resources in drier zones, while higher moisture levels may reduce competition by increasing resource availability.
Nutrient Cycling – Mosses contribute to nitrogen fixation and carbon sequestration, processes that may vary across moisture gradients.
Community Assembly – Patterns of species richness and abundance along the gradient reflect how moss communities assemble in response to abiotic and biotic factors.
Keywords
Moss Communities, Soil Moisture Gradient, Community Ecology