Synergistic effects in mine offsite landscapes: Predicted ecosystem shifts could exacerbate mining effects on bryophyte community structure

Global change is shifting ecosystem type relative abundance in boreal forests, while the green energy transition results increased mining activities around globe. The interaction and consequent effects of these two trends on biodiversity have not been examined depth. Bryophytes species can be used as indicators to measure because they play key ecological roles forests. We identified evaluated between (i.e., coniferous, deciduous, mixed forest open canopy) microhabitat scale bryophyte diversity composition 1-km landscapes surrounding six mine sites at different stages lifecycle Canadian forest. Irrespective type, combined stage were interactive bryophytes. Bryophyte richness community negatively affected by offsite mines only deciduous interacted mainly occurred ground r microhabitats. also found that forests (coniferous a reference) had negative impact feather mosses sphagna. Furthermore, indicator for areas (Pohlia nutans Dicranum polysetum) control (Sphagnum angustifolium Plagiomnium cuspidatum). Our suggest predicted shifts with global changes, from coniferous could potentially increase resistance through changes structure. Adding microhabitats adding coarse woody debris) near potential strategy maintain richness. Collectively, findings advance our understanding how affects highlight importance considering future environmental evaluations development projects context changes.