An experimental test of niche versus dispersal limitation of the distribution limit of the Ghost Antler Lichen, Pseudevernia cladonia, along a temperate-boreal elevation gradient

Understanding the mechanisms underlying species’ distribution limits is critical for predicting how species may respond to environmental change. For species restricted to mountain summits, there is concern that climatic changes may result in increasingly restricted distributions. Two central mechanisms govern species distribution limits: (i) niche limitations – environmental conditions beyond distribution limits that are insufficient for survival and reproduction, and (ii) dispersal limitations that prevent colonization of suitable habitat beyond distribution limits. Here, we conducted a transplant experiment to examine the effect of niche versus dispersal limitation on the altitudinal distribution limit of the Ghost Antler Lichen (Pseudevernia cladonia) that, within Québec, Canada, is restricted to high-elevation mountain summits in the southeast. Along an elevation gradient, we transplanted individuals into sites within its distribution, at the edge, and beyond its distribution. We observed that survival and performance were greatest within its distribution and decreased markedly beyond its distribution, supporting our prediction that this lichen is niche limited along the elevation gradient. We suggest that cooler and more humid conditions at the summit are important environmental factors for species’ persistence. Our findings suggest that projected climatic changes in these montane habitats may result in less suitable habitat for this species.