Functional Trait Research in Brazilian Bryophytes: Advances, Biases, and Future Directions

ABSTRACT Bryophytes play key roles in ecosystem functioning but have received limited attention in functional ecology, especially in tropical regions. This review synthesized data from 75 studies that measured functional traits in Brazilian bryophytes over the past 26 years. We analyzed traits across eight categories, traits distribution across Brazilian biomes, and among bryophyte groups (mosses, liverworts, and hornworts), and related these patterns to research focus, geographic distribution, author productivity, and collaboration networks. Reproductive traits predominated, and research was concentrated in the Atlantic Forest, while the Amazon, Caatinga, Cerrado, Pantanal, and Pampa remain poorly explored. Despite growing interest in functional ecology, these spatial and thematic biases reflect the dominance of a few highly productive specialists within a predominantly national collaboration network, shaping methodological approaches and reinforcing knowledge gaps. Our review also identified ongoing challenges in trait classification and functional interpretation. Nevertheless, Brazilian researchers have made important advances in bryophyte functional trait ecology, despite structural constraints that limit broader progress. We advocate expanding trait coverage, improving methodological standardization, and strengthening interdisciplinary and international collaborations to reduce existing biases. Establishing a regional trait database and developing a common conceptual framework for bryophyte functional traits would support hypothesis‐driven research, enable cross‐regional comparisons, and inform conservation strategies at multiple scales. Overall, our review maps the current state of bryophyte functional trait research in Brazil and outlines pathways to enhance its ecological and biogeographic relevance nationally and globally.