Researchers from the Center for Plant Diversity and Applied Research of the Institute of Botany PLE under the Ministry of Science and Education of the Republic of Azerbaijan conducted an expedition to the Zagatala district to collect moss specimens and carry out bryological monitoring.

During the expedition, monitoring activities were conducted in the Zagatala State Nature Reserve, Gabizdara, the left bank of the Katekh River, and the areas of Mukhakh, Ashagi Tala, Mazikh, Jar, Kebeloba, Akhakhdara, and Tarikhlar villages. Bryological samples were collected from various ecosystems. Herbarium materials representing species from the families Marchantiaceae, Polytrichaceae, Funariaceae, Dicranaceae, Pottiaceae, Bryaceae, Hypnaceae, Hylocomiaceae, and others were gathered, and preliminary identification work was carried out.

As a result of the initial observations, two moss species that are considered new records for the bryoflora of Azerbaijan were identified among the collected materials. In addition, several rare moss species were recorded, highlighting the rich bryological diversity of the region.

 The collected specimens will undergo microscopic examination, analysis, and taxonomic identification under laboratory conditions.