Abstract Detail

Bryological and Lichenological Section/ABLS

St Clair, Larry [1], Leavitt, Steven [2], Proulx, Monica [3].

Variable reproductive strategies in Vulpicida canadensis (Parmeliaceae).

In lichen-forming ascomycetes different reproductive strategies are commonly found in lichens with similar morphologies. In some lichen groups, these contrasting reproductive modes have commonly been used as diagnostic taxonomic characters, separating taxa that are otherwise morphologically similar. However, molecular phylogenetic studies suggest that in most cases closely related species pairs both sexual and vegetative lineages are often intermingled within a single species-level lineage. Furthermore, species that are characterized by a distinct reproductive mode (ex. production of vegetative diaspores [soralia or isidia] vs. ascomata), occasionally produce both asexual and sexual structures in the same thallus. Vulpicida canadadensis (Parmeliaceae) is a fertile species, commonly producing abundant apothecia. During recent fieldwork in the Boise National Forest, Idaho, USA, we discovered a local population of V. canadansis producing both apothecia and soralia-like structures. In this study, we used light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and molecular sequence data to confirm the presence of Trebouxia algae in these structures. We also compared mycobiont ITS sequence data among normal and ‘sorediate’ V. canadensis individuals within this local population. Herewe provide microscopic and genetic evidence that the soralia-like structure do, in fact, contain both fungal hyphae and Trebouxia algae. Furthermore, normal and ‘sorediate’ V. canadensis lichens share identical fungal ITS haplotypes. Our data indicate that V. canadensis may produce soralia under certain conditions, although specific factors that induce the development of alternative reproductive propagules remain unknown. Additional emphasis on genetic and environmental components required for the development of specific reproductive modes will likely reveal important insight into lichen biology.

Broader Impacts:

1 - Brigham Young University, Biology and M.L. Bean Life Science Museum, 290 Mlbm, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
2 - Brigham Young University, Biology and M.L. Bean Life Science Museum, 193 Mlbm, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
3 - Brigham Young University, M. L. Bean Life Science Museum, 193 Mlbm, Provo, UT, 84602, United States

Keywords:
soredia
apothecia
isidia
asexual reproduction.

Presentation Type: Poster:Posters for Sections
Session: P
Location: Grand Salon A - D/Riverside Hilton
Date: Monday, July 29th, 2013
Time: 5:30 PM
Number: PBR004
Abstract ID:621
Candidate for Awards:None