Abstract
This paper aims at comparing the continental (Mangaratiba) and insular (Ilha Grande) bryoflora in the state of Rio de Janeiro. The floristic survey of these areas has resulted in the identification of 231 bryophyte species, the similarity index being 69%. The highest index of specific diversity occurs in a track that is not under the influence of local human activity. The bryoflora is represented by families typical of tropical rain forests such as Lejeuneaceae, which also presents the highest index of specific diversity. The majority of the species presents rare absolute frequency, and is saxicolous, umbraticolous and ombrophilous. Nevertheless, these characteristics are not limiting as morphological adaptations allow for the colonization of different environments and substrates.