Response of non-vascular epiphytes to simulated climate change in a montane moist evergreen broad-leaved forest in southwest China

► We assess the potential effects of predicted climate change on four epiphytes. ► We simulate climate change by using altitudinal gradients as a proxy. ► Non-vascular epiphytes are susceptible to simulated climate change. ► Drought has directly deleterious effects on epiphytic bryophytes. ► Nephromopsis pallescens can be used as bio-indicator to monitor climate change.