Unlocking uses of mosses in post-fire restoration: better growing practices

Kebede, Hilina Yohannes (2023) Unlocking uses of mosses in post-fire restoration: better growing practices. Masters thesis, Northern Arizona University.

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Abstract

This study explores the utilization of mosses, particularly "fire mosses" such as Bryum, Ceratodon, and Funaria, as integral components in post-fire restoration efforts. The research investigates optimal growing practices in both soil-based (Bryotron system) and soil-less (Fog chamber) environments through a two-way factorial design. The study evaluates the impact of Knop solution fertilization and the introduction of live or sterile soil on moss percent cover over time. Results indicate the feasibility of achieving substantial moss cover for all three species in both growing systems. Ceratodon exhibits enhanced cover with Knop solution and live soil inoculum, while Funaria responds positively to Knop solution addition. However, the study recommends further randomized and replicated experiments across growing systems at the individual species level to better understand variations in responses to treatment factors and growing conditions. In summary, this research provides valuable insights into cultivating "fire mosses" and underscores their potential significance in post-fire ecosystem restoration. The findings emphasize the need for specific considerations in growing practices, paving the way for informed strategies in leveraging mosses for effective restoration after wildfire incidents.

Item Type:	Thesis (Masters)
Publisher’s Statement:	© Copyright is held by the author. Digital access to this material is made possible by the Cline Library, Northern Arizona University. Further transmission, reproduction or presentation of protected items is prohibited except with permission of the author.
Keywords:	Bryophytes; Ecosystem restoration; Fire moss; Forest ecology;
Subjects:	S Agriculture > SD Forestry
NAU Depositing Author Academic Status:	Student
Department/Unit:	Graduate College > Theses and Dissertations College of the Environment, Forestry, and Natural Sciences > School of Forestry
Date Deposited:	23 Jul 2026 22:00
Last Modified:	23 Jul 2026 22:00
URI:	https://openknowledge.nau.edu/id/eprint/6302

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