New occurrence of rare protected moss species Buxbaumia viridis (Bryopsida, Buxbaumiaceae) in the Bialowieza Forest

The Green Shield-moss Buxbaumia viridis (Bryopsida, Buxbaumiaceae) is an endangered, legally protected bryophyte considered as an ancient forest species both in Poland and elsewhere in Europe. This paper presents new localities for NE Poland, specifically in the Białowieża Forest. As an epixylous species, it is threatened by logging and intensive forest management. It is of utmost importance to protect this species' habitat, particularly at the present time when increased logging is proposed.