VOLT recently had the pleasure of a visit from Prof. Kelly Tonello from the Environmental Science Department at the Federal University of São Carlos, who gave a talk on the research being done on cloud forests in collaboration with VOLT.

"Associate Prof. Kathrin and I are engaged in a collaborative research project focusing on the ecohydrological services provided by cloud forests in Brazil."

So, what are these cloud forests? 

”A cloud forest, also known as a mossy forest, is a unique and rare ecosystem, making up only about 1% of global woodlands. These forests are typically found in mountainous regions where conditions are perfect for cloud formation due to the interaction of moist air masses and the terrain,” says Kelly.

Kelly’s research primarily focuses on Brazilian cloud forests such as the Serra do Mar in the state of São Paulo. The Serra do Mar which is Portuguese for “Sea Ridge” is a 1,500 km mountain range system in southeastern Brazil that runs parallel to the Atlantic Ocean.

“In the specific case of the Serra do Mar, the cloud forest is situated close to the ocean. Here, warm air masses form through the evaporation of ocean water. These air masses are then carried upwards by wind currents until they encounter the mountain slopes, where they are forced to ascend further. As the air cools, the moisture condenses, forming clouds and persistent mist. This results in heavy rainfall and continuous condensation, keeping the ecosystem perpetually moist,” she describes.

This constant moisture plays an important role in the uniqueness of the cloud forest ecosystems and has a direct impact on biodiversity.

“The high moisture levels in cloud forests support a diverse and rich biomass, especially epiphytes such as bryophytes, lichens, ferns, bromeliads, and orchids, which derive their moisture and nutrients directly from the air. Trees in cloud forests are generally shorter and sturdier than those in lower-altitude forests, with dense, compact crowns. The region is also home to a significant number of endemic species,” she adds.

Although cloud forests cover a seemingly small area of the world's forests, they are important not only for their high biodiversity, but also for the surrounding ecosystems.

”Cloud forests play a significant role in regulating the hydrological cycle in their regions. By capturing water from clouds through a process called "horizontal precipitation," they contribute to groundwater recharge and maintain river flow during dry periods. This function is critical for the surrounding communities and ecosystems that rely on consistent water supplies,” she continues.

However, the effects of climate change are putting pressure on these unique and diverse ecosystems.

“Cloud forests are critically important due to their sensitivity to local climates, which makes them particularly vulnerable to global climate change. Research suggests that these ecosystems will be strongly affected by climate change, primarily due to reductions in cloud moisture immersion and increasing temperatures. These changes will alter the hydrological cycle, leading to drier conditions. As a result, the epiphytes, which rely on high humidity, may wilt and die. Some climate models predict that low-altitude cloudiness will decrease, shifting the optimal climate for many cloud forest species to higher altitudes. This could lead to biodiversity loss, shifts in species ranges, community reshuffling, and in some cases, the complete disappearance of cloud forests,” she asserts. 

This is precisely why the research conducted by Prof. Kelly Tonello and Associate Prof. Kathrin Rousk is so significant.

"Our research aims to deepen the understanding of the water retention capacity of bryophytes and their role in nitrogen fixation within these unique ecosystems. By examining these critical processes, we hope to uncover the intricate dynamics that contribute to the sustainability and ecological resilience of cloud forests, which are vital for maintaining regional hydrology and biodiversity," Kelly concludes. 

Her research is funded by FAPESP (São Paulo Research Foundation).