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Species delimitation, phylogeography and partners specificity in Leptogium saturnium-group (Cyanolichen; Collemataceae)
Abstract
Lichens are regarded as complex ecosystems consisting of two main symbionts whose relationship is not strictly specific and therefore symmetric co-evolution is unlikely. The degree of specialization among symbionts is considered an important trait in the lichen symbiosis, as it might determine the degree of ecological tolerance and consequently the range of the lichen’s distribution. To study the patterns of specialization within a given lichen group, it is crucial to first investigate the species boundaries between the main symbionts. This study focuses on L. saturninum-group, a widespread species group of “jelly lichens” considered in North America and Europe as an indicator of undisturbed mature forests and high air quality. We used multi-locus sequence data from multiple individuals collected along the entire distribution range of the species group to first infer species boundaries and phylogeography for the fungal partner. Secondly, we evaluated partners' specificity and coevolution by comparing symbionts’ phylogenies using photobiont (Nostoc) sequences available in GenBank together with the sequences obtained from L. saturninum-group. Our fungal phylogenetic analysis indicates that the cosmopolitan L. saturninum s.s. and the recently described L. acadiense do not constitute distinct lineages. In contrast, specimens of the cosmopolitan L. burnetiae exhibit three distinct lineages, encompassing two previously recognized species along with a new species. Partner association analyses show both generalist but also reciprocal specificity within a cosmopolitan species, highlighting the occurrence of coevolution in lichens. Show more
Publication status
acceptedJournal / series
IMA FungusEvent
Subject
Fungi; SYMBIOSIS (BIOLOGY); Lichenized ascomycetes; Species delimitationOrganisational unit
03706 - Widmer, Alexander / Widmer, Alexander
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ETH Bibliography
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