Analysis of the distribution of epiphytic lichens in the oriental beech (Fagus Orientalis lipsky) forests along an altitudinal gradient in Uludag Mountain, Bursa - Turkey

A study of the diversity and distribution of epiphytic lichens were compared along an altitudinal gradient (900-1400 m) in the Fagetum zone of Uludag Mountain. Twenty four species of epiphytic lichens were analyzed. The most frequent species were Lecanora argentata, Lecanora carpinea, Lecanora chlarotera, Lecanora intumescens, Lecidella elaeochroma, Melanelixia subaurifera, Parmelia sulcata and Scoliciosporum umbrinum. The distribution of epiphytic lichens was significantly related to altitude. The species composition of epiphytic lichens at high altitudes was distinctly different than that of at low altitudes. The effect on the distribution of epiphytic lichens of altitude was statistically significant