Cozia_Peak_20230827.xlsx

Aim: This study was designed to reveal the potential relationship between the aspect characteristics of rock substrata and lichen diversity. Aspect is one of the effective ecological factors in the colonization and distribution of lichen taxa.<br>Location: In order to find out if there were any aspect preferences of the colonizing species and associations with the neighbouring species, a field study was designed at a rocky habitat in peak area of Cozia National Park (Romania).<br>Methods: Saxicolous lichen samples were collected from 4 different surface aspects (North, South, West and East) of the natural rock substrata in peak area of Cozia National Park (Romania). Specimens were identified through standard taxonomical procedures. Distribution and diversity information was noted in tables.<br>Results: The variety of 52 species identified in a total of 9 saxicolous communities was evaluated according to their presence and frequency levels on 4 different aspects of the rock surface. Distribution and abundance of the species were recorded for each sampling rock and then statistically analysed by using Sorensen similarity index. The analytical data showed that Acarospora fuscata, Buellia ocellata and Candelariella coralliza are the most frequent species in the study area. The points with the highest average number of species were determined at 01S, 04S and 01N aspects respectively to overall results. A higher intensity of species number was seen in the north aspects than in the south aspects and in west aspects than in the east aspects.<br>Main Conclusions: A clear correlation between aspect factor and variety of lichen species was determined, pointing out the existence and formation process of sociological unions within the lichen populations. The distribution and diversity of lichen populations form communities probably due to the sun exposure depending on the geographical directions.