39738	Nascimbene J. (2026): Lichen biodiversity in old-growth forests and on veteran trees: an overview with a focus on Italian forests. - L’Italia Forestale e Montana, 81(2s): 54–60. https://dx.doi.org/10.36253/ifm-1248. Lichens contribute significantly to forest biodiversity, both considering the number of species and their ecological roles that impact on ecosystem functioning. Several species are threatened with extinction due to their sensitivity to both atmospheric factors and forest management. Solid scientific evidence indicates that forest management intensity strongly influences lichen patterns, suggesting a gradient of greater suitability from industrially managed forests to old-growth forests left to evolve according to natural dynamics. The unvaluable role of old-growth forests for lichen diversity is increasingly recognized and parallels with that of veteran trees that are considered a keystone for maximizing lichen diversity. Some lichen species consistently indicate the trees and forest stands of greatest interest for conservation. In temperate forests of Italy, Lobaria pulmonaria seems to have a good predictive potential for detecting remnants of old-growth forests and for prioritizing forest sites for conservation. This aspect, combined with its easy detectability in the field even by non-lichenologists, makes this species an excellent and promising indicator of practical use in forest inventories. Old-growth forests are irreplaceable reservoirs of biodiversity, enabling the long-term conservation of currently threatened and extremely rare species. In this perspective, the strict conservation of these lichen hot-spots should be mandatory. Key words: lichen biota; Lobaria pulmonaria; old-growth forests; veteran trees.
39737	Ossowska E.A., Szczepańska K., Kossowska M., Szymczyk R., Reszewicz D., Jabłońska A. & Kukwa M. (2026): Mycobiont and photobiont DNA barcoding revealed polymetallic rocks to be a rich source of specific lichen diversity. - Scientific Reports, 16: 31408 [24 p.] . https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-52819-7. The main goal of the present study is to investigate the diversity of mycobionts and photobionts of rock-inhabiting lichens in pyrite-bearing schist outcrops in the Rudawy Janowickie Mts of the Sudety Mountains, also known as the Coloured Lakelets. Morphological, chemical, and molecular methods were used to determine lichen samples. A total of 41 lichen taxa were found in the study area, and 116 nuITS mycobiont sequences were obtained. The presented data constitute the first molecular evidence of the occurrence of almost all these taxa in Poland (except Sagedia mastrucata), as well as the first sequences of Lecanora handelii, L. subaurea, and Porpidia superba, which were deposited and shared in GenBank. One species, Lepraria pseudocaesiella, is described here as new to science, based on morphological, chemical, and molecular evidence. Myriospora rufescens is new to Poland, and the first Polish contemporary record of Trapelia elacista is presented. In case of photobionts, we obtained 64 nuITS sequences, and they belong to the genera Asterochloris, Trebouxia, and Pseudochlorella. This included the first evidence of an association between Rhizocarpon s.l. and Asterochloris. To illustrate the relationships between the mycobiont and photobiont genotypes detected on polymetallic rocks, we used a haplotype network tool. Haplotype network analyses for mycobionts resulted in the discovery of 20 new haplotypes from 12 lichen species. For photobionts, most of our sequences clustered into dominant and previously reported haplotypes. Keywords: Biodiversity, Haplotype network, Lichen-forming fungi, NCBI BLAST, New species, Pyritebearing schist, Taxonomy.
39736	Arsenault A., Baines P., Deduke C., Driscoll K. & McCarthy J. (2026): Foray 2025 lichen report. - Omphalina, 17(1): 46–51. . Canada, Newfoundland and Labrador, Absconditella sphagnorum, new records of lichens and lichenicolous fungi
39735	Randlane T. (2026): In memoriam: Ingvar Kärnefelt (19.07.1944–24.07.2026). - Folia Cryptogamica Estonica, 63: 99–100. https://doi.org/10.12697/fce.2026.63.10. obituary
39734	Frenák R., Vaneková Z., Lager S., Medvecová V., Kello M., Rollinger J.M. & Goga M. (2026): Lichens as a source of nematocidal compounds: Identification of sphaerophorin and divaricatic acid active against Caenorhabditis elegans. - ACS Omega, 11(38): 57213–57221. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.6c05106. Increasing helminth drug resistance necessitates novel anthelmintic agents. Lichens, historically used to treat parasitic infections, represent a promising natural resource. This study evaluated eight lichen extracts and 17 metabolites against the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans (wild-type strain N2). Extracts of Hypogymnia physodes, Nephroma arcticum, and Stereocaulon grande showed significant efficacy, while Sphaerophorus fragilis and Ophioparma ventosa caused 100% nematode mortality on day 11 (at 25 and 100 μg/mL, respectively). Chemical workup of S. fragilis yielded squamatic acid, sphaerophorin, and its monocyclic degradation products. Among the tested compounds, the depside sphaerophorin exhibited the highest nematocidal activity (LC50 = 22.07 μM), followed by divaricatic acid (LC50 = 77.27 μM). Physodic acid (LC50 > 200 μM) and evernic acid showed moderate effects. Sphaerophorin and divaricatic acid demonstrated moderate to low selectivity, generally exhibiting lower cytotoxicity toward human CCD-18Co cells (CC50 values of 88.5 μM and 91.7 μM, respectively) than toward nematodes. Given a panel of 17 structurally related compounds, we conducted a structure–activity relationship (SAR) analysis to identify molecular patterns associated with observed nematocidal activity. The analysis suggested the importance of the intact depside structure together with the presence of aliphatic chains and a carboxylic group, as isolated monocyclic fragments lacked antinematode efficacy. This first report on the nematocidal activity of H. physodes, N. arcticum, S. grande, and S. fragilis extracts, alongside evernic acid, physodic acid, and sphaerophorin, against the model organism C. elegans identifies them as promising scaffolds that warrant further investigation against parasitic species.
39733	Himelbrant D.E., Stepanchikova I.S., Rodionova A.A., Zueva A.S., Tsurykau A., Bolsun I., Frolov I.V. & Kuznetsova E.S. (2026): New records of lichens and allied fungi from the Leningrad Region, Russia. XIV. - Folia Cryptogamica Estonica , 63: 53–61. https://doi.org/10.12697/fce.2026.63.05. Seven lichen (including two “semilichen”) species, ten lichenicolous fungi and one related saprotrophic fungus were recorded for the first time in the Leningrad Region or Saint Petersburg. The lichen Micarea myriocarpa and the lichenicolous fungus Tremella anaptychiae are new to Russia. The lichenicolous fungi Arrhenia peltigerina s. lat., Cladosporium licheniphilum, and Unguiculariopsis lettaui are new to European Russia. The species Amandinea pelidna, Coppinsiella ulcerosa, Cryptodiscus foveolaris, Lichenopeltella ramalinae, Monodictys epicladonia, Reichlingia zwackhii, Stigmidium cladoniicola, and Zyzygomyces aipoliae are new to North-Western European Russia. Keywords: lichen diversity, crustose lichens, lichenicolous fungi, Micarea myriocarpa, Tremella anaptychiae.
39732	Kubiak D. (2026): Materiały do bioty porostów Puszczy Knyszyńskiej (Polska północno-wschodnia). Porosty rezerwatów przyrody „Stara Dębina” i „Surażkowo”. - Fragmenta Floristica et Geobotanica Polonica, 31(1): 71−80. https://doi.org/10.35535/ffgp-2026-0002. Contribution to the lichen biota of the Knyszyńska Forest (NE Poland). Lichens of the Stara Dębina and Surażkowo nature reserves. [in Polish with English abstract and summary: ] The article presents the results of lichenological studies conducted in the Stara Dębina and Surażkowo nature reserves located in the Knyszyńska Forest (north-eastern Poland). A total of 97 taxa were recorded, including 66 species in the Stara Dębina reserve and 83 species in the Surażkowo reserve (including 30 exclusive taxa), while 42 species were shared by common to both reserves. The recorded taxa were characterized with regard to substrate preferences, legal protection status, threat categories according to the national red list, and bioindicator value as indicators of lowland old-growth forests. Fifteen species were recorded for the first time in the Knyszyńska Forest. Key words: distribution, diversity, lichenized fungi, natural forests, NE Poland. The article presents the results of lichenological studies carried out in 2022 in two nature reserves, Stara Dębina (34 ha) and Surażkowo (134 ha), located in the Knyszyńska Forest in north-eastern Poland. In total, 97 lichen species were recorded, including 66 species in the Stara Dębina reserve and 83 species in the Surażkowo reserve. The recorded taxa include a high proportion of species of conservation concern, comprising 32 species listed on the national “red list”, seven legally protected species, and 11 stenoecious forest lichens regarded in Poland as indicators of lowland old-growth forests. Fifteen species are reported for the first time from the Knyszyńska Forest: Agonimia allobata, Bacidia biatorina, Biatora albohyalina, Calicium parvum, Fuscidea arboricola, Lecania croatica, L. stanislai, Lecidea nylanderi, Lepraria rigidula, Micarea byssacea, M. micrococca, M. soralifera, Reichlingia leopoldii, Rinodina efflorescens, and Scoliciosporum sarothamni). A critical analysis of previously published data, supplemented by the present results, indicates that the total number of lichen species currently known from the Knyszyńska Forest amounts to 364.
39731	Howland J.W. (2026): Sclerophora coniophaea, a rare calicioid lichen newly reported from the Adirondack Mountains of New York. - Opuscula Philolichenum, 25: 397–402. . Sclerophora coniophaea, a calicioid lichen, is reported for the first time from New York State and the contiguous United States of America. During lichen inventories of 31 mature and old-growth stands in the Adirondack and Catskill Forest Preserves, the species was found at two sites, both in the Adirondack Mountains. These records extend the known range of S. coniophaea in eastern North America substantially south and inland from previously documented occurrences in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Quebec. The vulnerability of S. coniophaea documented in Europe suggests that the Adirondack subpopulations may likewise face an elevated risk of extirpation. The conservation status of the species remains unassessed in the United States, these new records provide a basis for future assessments and a proposed rank of S1 in New York. Keywords: Acadian Region, Betula alleghaniensis, threatened species, old growth forests, yellow birch.
39730	Fałtynowicz W. (2026): Propozycja nowej czerwonej listy porostów Polski 2025 – materiały do dyskusji. - Wiadomości Botaniczne, 70: 217250 [17 p.]. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6511-8403. 'Proposal for a new red list of lichens in Poland for 2025 – discussion materials' [in Polish with English summary: ] Almost 20 years have passed since the last edition of the Red List of Threatened Lichens in Poland. During this time, significant changes have occurred on several levels, rendering the list outdated and no longer reflecting the actual threat to the country’s lichen biota. Over these 20 years, habitat conditions have changed – acidification has been replaced by hypertrophication. Furthermore, an initially rapid recolonization process was observed, which has slowed somewhat in recent years, but as a result, changes in the distribution of many species have become noticeable and significant. Other factors devaluing the previous Red List include, firstly, the signifi- cant progress in understanding the lichen biota in many regions of Poland, and secondly, the significant taxo- nomic changes resulting from the introduction of molecular methods. In my opinion, the need for a new Red List is becoming urgent, particularly in the context of the need to revise the regulation on the protection of lichen species and identify taxa requiring urgent protection. Keywords: lichens; Poland; proposal of red list.
39729	Bilovitz P.O. & Mayrhofer H. (2025): The lichen genus Rinodina (Physciaceae) in the herbarium of the University of Graz (GZU). – . - Phyton (Horn), 64–65: 23–34. DOI: 10.12905/0380.phyton64-65-2025-0023. All specimens of the lichen genus Rinodina stored in the herbarium of the University of Graz (GZU) have been evaluated, some critical specimens have been revised. The collection harbors 5796 specimens (140 types) from a total of 180 species with 3 varieties and 1 subspecies. Rinodina austroborealis is new to Britsh Columbia (Canada), R. castanomelodes new to Africa and Pakistan, R. conchophylla new to Austria and Spain, R. dolichospora new to Greece, R. epiianthina new to Pakistan and the Pamir region (Tajikistan), R. furfuracea new to Slovenia, R. guzzinii new to Austria, R. immersa new to Pakistan, R. interpolata new to Austria, R. luridata new to Tajikistan, R. maculans new to Macaronesia, R. mniaroea new to Montenegro, R. monacensis new to Austria, R. nivalis new to Austria, R. parasitica new to Canada and Pakistan, R. pycnocarpa new to Pakistan, R. roscida new to Argentina and Pakistan, R. terrestris new to Pakistan, and R. trevisanii new to Greece. Key words: Ascomycota, Physciaceae, lichenized fungi, collection.
39728	Möller E.J., Brinker S.R., Charalambous N., Haugan R. & Timdal E. (2026): Rhizocarpon ecorticatum sp. nov., with notes on the sorediate, yellow map lichens. - Graphis Scripta, 38(6): 132–146. https://nhm2.uio.no/botanisk/lav/Graphis/38_6/GS_38_132.pdf. A phylogenetic reconstruction of the Rhizocarpon geographicum group based on the ITS marker recovers sorediate specimens in two highly supported clades. The clades are not phylogenetic sisters and are regarded as two species hypotheses. The three available names for sorediate, yellow Rhizocarpon species, R. ridescens, R. sorediosum, and R. subconglomeratum are regarded as synonyms, with the first mentioned as the correct name for one of the hypotheses. The second species hypothesis is described as the new species R. ecorticatum. Two chemotypes are recognized in R. ridescens (rhizocarpic acid and either barbatic or psoromic acid), and one chemotype in R. ecorticatum (rhizocarpic and psoromic acid). Rhizocarpon ecorticatum differs morphologically from R. ridescens in forming areolae without a cortex. It grows on metal rich rock and is known from two collection, one from Norway and one from Canada (Ontario).
39727	Marmor-Ohtla L., Jüriado I., Lõhmus P., Martin L., Oja E. & Suija A. (2026): New and noteworthy records of lichenized and lichenicolous fungi from Estonia. - Folia Cryptogamica Estonica, 63: 89–97. https://doi.org/10.12697/fce.2026.63.09. Herewith, we continue to update the Estonian checklist of lichenized, lichenicolous and allied fungi, and report 12 lichenized (Aspicilia aquatica, Evernia illyrica, Lecidea swartzioidea, Physcia alnophila, Protoblastenia borealis, P. compressa, Rehmia rubescens, Sarcogyne nivea, Thelidium rimosulum, Verrucaria cernaensis, V. linkolae and V. tenebrosa) and one lichenicolous (Phacographa glaucomaria) species new for Estonia. In addition, the species Lobarina scrobiculata, last found nearly half a century ago, has been rediscovered in Estonia.
39726	Tarasova V.N. & Myllys L. (2026): Occurrence of the rare lichen Nephromopsis laureri (Parmeliaceae) at its northern limit in Europe, with the first record from Finland. - Folia Cryptogamica Estonica, 63: 69–78. https://doi.org/10.12697/fce.2026.63.07. Six new localities of Nephromopsis laureri were identified within the 61–63° N latitudinal range in Northern Europe, in middle boreal forests of North Karelia (Finland), as well as in the southern parts of the Republic of Karelia and the Arkhangelsk Region (Russia). We report the first record of N. laureri for Finland, which represents the westernmost point of the species’ Northern European range. All specimens were found as single vegetative thalli (virginal stage, without ascomata, with soralia) in old-growth forests with high stand continuity (140–350 years). Repeated surveys in 2025 confirmed an extremely low population density, with no new individuals detected despite intensive searching. Phylogenetic analysis placed the Finnish specimen within the European N. laureri s. str. clade, clearly distinct from Asian lineages. Keywords: Finland, Northern Europe, distribution, old-growth forests, conservation, molecular phylogeny.
39725	Naz S., Firdous S.S., Usman M., Khalid A.N., Hussain I. & Shaheen H. (2026): A new species of lichenized fungus Trapelia (Trapeliaceae, Ascomycota) from Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. - Pak-Euro Journal of Medical and Life Sciences, 9(1): 237–244. DOI: 10.31580/pjmls.v9i1.3476. During a survey of lichens collected in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan, specimens of the genus Trapelia were found. After a detailed study, including molecular and morpho-anatomical characterization, it was revealed that these specimens belong to an undescribed species of Trapelia. The molecular characterization is based on a phylogenetic study of the Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) region of ribosomal DNA, with the closest species in the phylogenetic tree being Trapelia elacista and Trapelia atrocarpa. The distinguished characters of Trapelia pakistanensis are a pruinose white to grey, saxicolous thallus that is continuous to rimose. The most distinctive character is the large apothecia, which are irregular to round and pinkish brown in color while the thallus is non- sorediate. This is the first species of the genus Trapelia to be reported from Pakistan. Keywords: Apothecium, Lichenology, Poonch AJK, PCR, Sanger sequencing, Taxonomy.
39724	Médail F. (2026): Paul-François Lasalle (1771-1809), un jardinier-botaniste méconnu du Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle et ses herborisations en Corse au début du XIXe siècle. - Adansonia, 48(19): 205–226. https://doi.org/10.5252/adansonia2026v48a19. Paul-François Lasalle (1771-1809), a little-known gardener-botanist at the National Museum of Natural History (Paris) and his botanical collections in Corsica in the early 19th century. Gardener-botanists played a decisive role in the development of the living plant collections and herbaria of the National Museum of Natural History (Paris), but their place remained unknown for a long time. Paul-François Lasalle (1771-1809) was one of these behind-the-scenes figures at the Paris Museum. A student of André Thouin, the famous head gardener of the Jardin des Plantes, Lasalle held the position of head gardener of the botanical garden of the É cole centrale de Fontainebleau at the end of the 18th century. Then, in 1803, Thouin sent him to Corsica to take care of the Ajaccio Botanical Garden, which had been created a few years earlier. He remained there only a few years, dying of malaria in December 1809. Completely forgotten for more than two centuries, the botanical work of Lasalle deserves to be brought to light because his observations made in Corsica at the very beginning of the 19th century allowed the island flora to be enriched with several rare species (Kundmannia sicula, Prasium majus, Ranunculus macrophyllus), including two remarkable Cyrno-Sardinian endemic species characterized by a micro-insular distribution (Nananthea perpusilla and Silene velutina) which he was the first to discover. Key words: cole centrale of Fontainebleau, islet specialist plant, endemism, history of botany, Ajaccio Botanical Garden, lichens, Nananthea perpusilla, Silene velutina.
39723	Oh S.-Y., Cha Y., Woo J.-J., Seo C.W. & Kim Y.S. (2026): Intron-associated mitogenome size variation and gene-specific stop codon absence in the lichen-forming genus Ramalina. - Journal of Fungi, 12(10): 729 [12 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/jof12100729. Mitochondrial genomes of lichen-forming fungi provide a useful system for examining genome evolution, yet the fruticose lichen genus Ramalina has not been studied comparatively. We newly sequenced three Ramalina mitogenomes and reconstructed one from published data, then compared these with six additional public mitogenomes to obtain a 10-species dataset. Nine other Ramalinaceae mitogenomes were used as a reference panel. Within Ramalina, core gene content and gene order are highly conserved, whereas genome size varies 1.83-fold and is strongly associated with intron content and homing endonuclease abundance. Introns repeatedly occupy homologous insertion sites across the genus. Four genes, cox1, nad3, nad4, and nad5, recurrently lack canonical stop codons at conserved terminal positions, while cob consistently lacks a stop immediately after the conserved ENSLIELA motif. These states are supported by multiple assembly approaches and reanalysis of public reads, while the affected genes show patterns consistent with purifying selection. These results show that Ramalina mitogenomes combine conserved core architecture with intron-associated size variation and recurrent changes in mitochondrial gene-terminal signals. Keywords: group I introns; Lecanoromycetes; lichens; mitochondrial genomes; Ramalinaceae.
39722	Hawksworth D.L. (1978): Notes on British lichenicolous fungi: II. - Notes from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 36: 181–197. https://doi.org/10.24823/nrbge.1978.3108. Seven species of obligately lichenicolous fungi are reported from the British Isles for the first time and additional notes are included on a further eight species. The new combinations Ascochyta lichenoides (A. L. Sm.) D. Hawksw., Chaenothecopsis parasitaster (Bagl. & Car.) D. Hawksw. and Lecidea lichenicola (A.L. Sm. & Ramsb.) D. Hawksw. are made (the last being the correct name for the lichenized L. watsonii P. James) and two new species (Nectriella tenuispora D. Hawksw. and Vouauxiella uniseptata D. Hawksw.) are described. Lophothelium acervatum Stirt. (the type species of Lophothelium Stirt.) and Microthelia sereocaulicola Linds. are both later synonyms of Polycoccum trypethelioides (Th. Fr.) R. Sant. whilst M. cookei Linds. is a synonym of Tichothecium lichenicola (Sommerf. ex Fr.) R. Sant. Trichonectria hirta (Blox.) Petch is found to be a lichenicolous species.
39721	Coppins B.J. & Gilbert O.L. (1979): George Johnston's lichen herbarium at the R. B. G., Edinburgh. - Notes from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 37: 381–385. https://doi.org/10.24823/nrbge.1979.3162. A folder of lichens assembled by George Johnston of Berwick has been rediscovered and its contents revised and cross-referenced to his published works. A short biographical account of Johnston is given with emphasis on his lichenological activities.
39720	Hawksworth D.L. (1980): Notes on British lichenicolous fungi: III. - Notes from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 38: 165–183. ttps://doi.org/10.24823/nrbge.1980.3193. Two species are described as new: Clypeococcum hypocenomyceae D. Hawksw. (on Hypocenomyce scalaris) and Ramularia peltigericola D. Hawksw. (on Peltigera polydactyla). The new genus Thamnogalla D. Hawksw. is introduced for Endocarpon crombiei Mudd and three new combinations are made: Spilomela ascaridiella (Nyl.) D. Hawksw., Thamnogalla crombiei (Mudd) D. Hawksw., and Trichothyrina cetrariicola (Nyl.) D. Hawksw. Nectriella tincta (Fuckel) R. Sant and Pyrenopeziza thallophila (P. Karsten) Sacc. are reported from the British Isles for the first time and the presence of Rhagadostoma lichenicola (de Not.) Keissler confirmed. Arthonia punctella Nyl. is considered to be distinct from A. clemens (Tul.) Th. Fr. and Microthelia dissepta (Nyl.) A. L. Sm. as probably a synonym of Pleospora peripherica (Taylor) D. Hawksw.
39719	Hawksworth D.L. (1982): Notes on British lichenicolous fungi: IV. - Notes from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 40: 375–397. https://doi.org/10.24823/nrbge.1982.3285. Notes on 18 taxa are presented. Actinopeltis peltigericola D. Hawksw., Endococcus alpestris D. Hawksw., Everniicola D. Hawksw. (Coelomycetes), E. flexispora D. Hawksw., Paranectria superba D. Hawksw., Skyttea spinosa D. Hawksw. & Coppins and S. viridis D. Hawksw. & Coppins are described as new. Lecidea insidiosa Th.Fr., Libertiella maimedyensis Speg. & Roum., Metasphaeria stereocaulorum (Arnold) Sacc., Opegrapha pulvinata Rehm and Paranectria oropensis (Ces.) D. Hawksw. & Piroz. are reported or confirmed from the British Isles for the first time. Additional British collections of Clypeococcum cladonema (Wedd.) D. Hawksw., Endococcus parietinus (Lindsay) Clauz. & Roux, and Nectriella tincta (Fuckel) R. Sant. are noted. Previous reports of Bacidia beckhausii Körber being lichenicolous, and of the presence of Buellia adjuncta Th.Fr. in the British Isles, are shown to be erroneous. Muellerella opegraphicola Zopf is shown to be an additional synonym of M. polyspora Hepp ex Müll. Arg., and the new combinations Clypeococcum grossum (Körber) D. Hawksw. and Skyttea lettaui (Grumm.) D. Hawksw. are also made.
39718	Orton P.D. (1984): Notes on British Agarics: VIII. - Notes from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 41: 565–624. https://doi.org/10.24823/nrbge.1984.3358. Omphalina fulvopallens sp. nov. (a renaming of Omphalia pseudoandrosacea (Bull.) Gillet sensu Moller) [currently regarded for the synonym of Lichenomphalia ericetorum (Pers.) Voitk, Thorn & I. Saar]
39717	Coppins B.J. (1986): Nez Zealand Lichens. - Notes from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 43: 545. https://doi.org/10.24823/nrbge.1986.3456. book review on the book by D.J. Galloway
39716	Coppins B.J. (1987): Two new lichenicolous species of Opegrapha from western Scotland. - Notes from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 44: 601–606. https://doi.org/10.24823/nrbge.1987.3498 . Two new lichenicolous species of Opegrapha (Opegraphaceae) are described from western Scotland: O. brevis (on Thelotrema subtile) and O. thelotrematis (on Thelotrema lepadinum and T. monosporum). Comparative notes are provided for all known lichenicolous species of Opegrapha occurring in the British Isles.
39715	Galloway D.J. & James P.W. (1987): Metus, a new austral lichen genus and notes on an Australasian species of Pycnothelia. - Notes from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 44: 561–579. https://doi.org/10.24823/nrbge.1987.3496 . Metus D. Galloway & P. James, a new lichen genus in the Cladoniaceae is proposed for three Southern Hemisphere taxa. Metus conglomeratus (F. Wilson) D. Galloway & P. James comb. nov., occurs in New Zealand, Tasmania and SE Australia; M. pileatus (Mont.) D. Galloway & P. James comb. nov., is found in Chile, and M. efflorescens D. Galloway & P. James sp. nov., also from Chile is described. Pycnothelia caliginosa D. Galloway & P. James, sp. nov., first found on quartzite soil in New Zealand and subsequently in Tasmania, is also described.
39714	Hawksworth D.L. (1987): Observations on three algicolous microfungi. - Notes from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 44: 549–560. https://doi.org/10.24823/nrbge.1987.3495. Studies on three microfungi forming symbiotic associations with algae are reported. The nomenclature of the marine hyphomycete Blodgettia Wright and its type species B. bornetii Wright is examined and the correct generic and species names found to be Blodgettia Harvey and B. confervoides Harvey; this fungus forms a mutualistic symbiosis with Cladophora. A pyrenocarpous fungus collected on a freshwater Lemanea from France conspecific with Sphaeria lemaneae Cohn ex Woronin is found to be most appropriately placed in Phaeospora Hepp ex B. Stein as Phaeospora lemaneae (Cohn ex Woronin) D. Hawksw. The new hyphomycete genus - Velutipila D. Hawksw. is introduced for the single species V. poeltii D. Hawksw. from Austria; this associates with a chlorococcalean alga (?Gyroeffyana humicola) and forms lichen-like patches in decaying moss cushions in Austria.
39713	Diederich P. & Marson G. (1988): Tremella coppinsii, a new lichenicolous basidiomycete from Sarawak. - Notes from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 45: 175–176. https://doi.org/10.24823/nrbge.1988.3520. During an expedition in Sarawak, Dr Brian Coppins collected several samples of Platismatia regenerans W. L. Culb. & C. F. Culb. with an unknown lichenicolous Tremella species.
39712	Coppins B.J. (1988): Skyttea refractiva, a new lichenicolous discomycete. - Notes from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 45: 171–173. https://doi.org/10.24823/nrbge.1988.3519 . A new lichenicolous, odontotremoid discomycete, Skyttea refractiva Coppins is described from the British Isles and Luxembourg, where it is hosted by Bacidia sabuletorum and Toninia lobulata.
39711	Coppins B.J. (1988): Two new Micarea species from Europe. - Notes from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 45: 161–169. https://doi.org/10.24823/nrbge.1988.3518. Two new saxicolous species of Micarea Fr. (lichen-forming fungi: Lecideaceae s. lat.) are described: M. excipulata Coppins from Austria and M. marginata Coppins & Muhr from Sweden. Both species have a well-developed excipulum.
39710	Coppins B.J. (1989): Micarea pseudomarginata: a new saxicolous lichen from the British Isles. - Notes from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 45: 397–400. https://doi.org/10.24823/nrbge.1989.3535. Micarea pseudomarginata Coppins sp. nov. is described from the British Isles, where it occurs in upland districts on vertical surfaces of acid rocks and walls.
39709	Rambold G. & Triebel D. (1990): Gelatinopsis, Geltingia and Phaeopyxis: three helotialean genera with lichenicolous species. - Notes from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 46: 375–389. https://doi.org/10.24823/nrbge.1990.3581. The helotialean genera Gelatinopsis Rambold & Triebel, Geltingia Alstrup & D. Hawksw. and Phaeopyxis Rambold & Triebel, all comprising species formerly included in Nesolechia Massal. or Phacopsis Tul., are presented. Phaeopyxis Rambold &Triebel is described as new, Gelatinopsis Rambold & Triebel replaces Micropyxis Seeler (nom. illegit.). The following combinations are proposed: Gelatinopsis ericetorum (Körber) Rambold & Triebel, comb. nov., Gelatinopsis geoglossi (J.B. Ellis & Everhart) Rambold & Triebel, comb. nov., Phaeopyxis punctum (Massal.) Rambold, Triebel & Coppins, comb, nov., Phaeopyxis carniolica (Arnold) Rambold & Triebel, comb. nov., Unguiculariopsis lettaui (Grummann) Coppins, comb. nov. and Unguiculariopsis refractiva (Coppins) Coppins, comb. nov. Two new species, Phaeopyxis varia Coppins, Rambold & Triebel from Europe and Phaeopyxis australis Rambold & Triebel from Australia are described. The main characteristics of helotialean genera with lichenicolous species, including one with hepaticolous species, are given. A key to the lichenicolous helotialean species discussed is provided.
39708	Hawksworth D.L. (1990): Notes on British lichenicolous fungi: VI. - Notes from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 46: 391–403. https://doi.org/10.24823/nrbge.1990.3582. Following a survey of recent literature, notes are provided on 15 species. Abrothallus cladoniae R. Sant. & D. Hawksw., Capronia normandinae R. Sant. & D. Hawksw. and Weddellomyces macrospora D. Hawksw., Renobales & Coppins are described as new species. Nine species are reported from the British Isles for the first time: Buelliella physciicola Poelt & Hafellner, Cercidospora lichenicola (Zopf) Hafellner, Leptosphaerulina peltigerae (Fuckel) Riedl, Lichenopuccinia poeltii D. Hawksw. & Hafellner, Lichenostigma rugosa Thor, Nectriella anisospora Lowen, N. tenacis (Vouaux) Weese, Phaeosporobolus usneae D. Hawksw. & Hafellner, and Taeniolella punctata M. S. Christ. & D. Hawksw. The British records of Dactylospora urceolata (Th. Fr.) Arnold and Lecideaumbonata (Hepp) Muddare shown tobe based on misidentifications of D. frigida Hafellner and Cecidonia umbonella (Nyl.) Triebel & Rambold respectively. Some additional records of Bachmanniomyces unciaticola (Zopf) D. Hawksw. are also presented.
39707	Hawksworth D.L. (1986): Notes on British lichenicolous fungi: V. - Notes from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, 43: 497–519. https://doi.org/10.24823/nrbge.1986.3454. Notes on 11 taxa are presented. Dacampia rufescentis (Vouaux) D. Hawksw., Epicladonia stenospora (Harmand) D. Hawksw., Lecidea inquinans (Tul.) Nyl., Lichenostigma maureri Hafellner, and Polycoccum epicrassum (H. Olivier) R. Sant. are reported from the British Isles for the first time. The remarkable new genus Weddellomyces D. Hawksw. is described for W. epicallopismum (Weddell) D. Hawksw., a parasymbiont of lobate Caloplaca species characterized by ascomata which have a cephalothecoid structure above, breaking up to form an irregular pore through which the ascospores are discharged; the genus belongs to the Dothideales and is tentatively referred to the Pyrenidiaceae. Nectria indigens (Arnold) Rehm, Verrucaria aspiciliicola R. Sant. and Weddellomyces epicallopismum are all confirmed as present in the British Isles. In addition, the new combination Pyrenidium hetairizans (Leighton) D. Hawksw. is made, descriptions and illustrations are provided for Scutula krempelhuberi Körber and Stigmidium solorinarium (Vainio) D. Hawksw., and Epicymatica thallophila (Cooke) Sacc. is shown to be a later synonym of Anisomeridium biforme (Borrer) R. C. Harris.
39706	Ahmad U.F., Afshan N.S. & Khalid A.N. (2026): New Kudratovia S.Y.Kondr., Lőkös & Hur species and Anaptychia Körb. records from Pakistan (lichenized Ascomycota, Physciaceae Zahlbr.). - Cryptogamie, Mycologie 47(7): 85-102, 47(7): 85–102. https://doi.org/10.5252/cryptogamie-mycologie2026v47a7. http://cryptogamie.com/mycologie/47/7. This study contributes to the understanding of Physciaceae Zahlbr. lichens in Pakistan by analyzing specimens collected from various regions of Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. As a result of this investigation, Kudratovia pakistanica U.F. Ahmad, Afshan & Khalid, sp. nov., is described here as a new species, while Anaptychia crinalis (Schleich.) Vězda ex J. Nowak and A. roemerioides Hollinger, Noell & S.D. Leav. are reported as new records for Pakistan. Kudratovia pakistanica U.F. Ahmad, Afshan & Khalid, sp. nov., is morphologically similar to the closely related K. luridata but is characterized by its thick, indeterminate thallus, plane to concave apothecial discs, a thick hypothecium forming a stipe in mature apothecia (up to 200 µm deep), larger asci (68-92 × 12-24 μm), and larger ascospores (16-19 × 10-12 μm). Furthermore, recent collections – corroborated by detailed morphological examination, molecular data, and evaluation of prior taxonomic literature – confirm Anaptychia setifera (Mereschk.) Räsänen as the currently accepted name for A. kaspica Gyeln., thereby clarifying its taxonomic status and contributing to a better understanding of its distribution within the country. A detailed taxonomic treatment, including morphological descriptions and molecular phylogenetic analysis, is provided to support these findings. Keywords: Caliciales, cryptolecanorine, foliose, Gilgit-Baltistan, maximum-likelihood, phylogeny, tomentose, symbioses, new species.
39705	Veretina A.K., Alferova V.A., Guseva E.A., Izzi A.R., Nikandrova A.A., Kudryakova G.K., Zhitlov M.Y., Golubeva J.A., Vays V.B., Vangeli I.M., Khabibulina Yu.M., Bakeeva L.E., Lukianova A.A., Konstantin L.G., Karpov D.S., Lukianov D.A., Dontsova O.A. & Sergiev P.V. (2026): The reindeer’s secret: Salazinic acid from lichens as a candidate modulator of autophagy. - International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 27(19): 8621 [18 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27198621. Autophagy is a conserved lysosome-dependent process essential for cellular homeostasis, and pharmacological activation of autophagy has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy for age-related, neurodegenerative, metabolic, and malignant diseases. Despite the growing interest in natural autophagy modulators, lichens remain largely unexplored as a source of autophagy-inducing compounds. Here, we tested ethanolic extracts from four commercially available lichens using LC3-II accumulation as a primary readout. Usnea sp. was identified as the most active species. Activity-guided fractionation followed by HRMS and NMR analyses identified salazinic acid as the active metabolite. Salazinic acid increased LC3-II accumulation, enhanced autophagic flux in the presence of bafilomycin A1, and promoted autophagosome formation as confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. The compound exhibited low cytotoxicity in human cell lines at concentrations exceeding those required for autophagy induction. Mechanistically, salazinic acid activated the phosphorylation of AMPK, ULK1, and AKT; however, it retained its ability to stimulate autophagic flux in AMPK- and ULK1-deficient cells, indicating that its activity is not strictly dependent on the canonical AMPK–ULK1 signaling pathway. Collectively, our findings identify salazinic acid as a previously unrecognized inducer of productive autophagic flux and demonstrate that lichen secondary metabolites represent a promising and largely untapped source of novel autophagy-modulating compounds. Keywords: lichen extracts; novel resource of autophagy inducers; lichens; salazinic acid; Usnea sp.
39704	Pazos T., Moya P., Chiva S., Škaloud P., Kantnerová V., Barreno E. & Garrido-Benavent I. (2026): The impact of visible symptoms of thallus damage on the phycobiota of Mediterranean epiphytic lichens. - Microbial Ecology, 89: 158 [18 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00248-026-02794-3. Lichens are excellent bioindicators of overall ecosystem health. The symbiotic nature of their thalli enables tracking changes in humidity, temperature, habitat disturbance and air pollution, often before larger plants do. Sensitive species usually show visible thallus damage, such as bleaching or changes in colour (including total or partial necrosis, and death of the photosynthetic component of the symbiosis), slow growth, and/or biases in reproductive strategies. Particularly, the extent to which these damages are associated with changes in the microscopic photosynthetic community inhabiting lichen thalli (phycobiota) remains poorly understood. Here, we combined Sanger and Illumina sequencing techniques to characterize the diversity and community structure of the eukaryotic phycobiome in selected epiphytic macrolichens showing different levels of thallus damage. Phylogenetic analyses revealed a high microalgal diversity, largely dominated by a few Trebouxia species, which are the most prevalent lichenized microalgae, accompanied by several low-abundance co-occurring genera. Notably, microalgal diversity peaked at intermediate levels of thallus damage. This pattern is consistent with disturbance-mediated modulation of microalgal community evenness rather than a categorical shift in symbiotic composition. These findings reveal previously unrecognized variability within the lichen phycobiota, providing new insights into the ecological dynamics and stress responses of these communities. In conclusion, our work offers a new perspective on the potential of lichens as sensitive bioindicators of air quality and ecosystem health. Keywords: Diversity indices · Illumina · Intermediate Disturbance Hypothesis (IDH) · Metabarcoding · Photobiont · Symbiosis.
39703	Skubała K., Chowaniec K., Mrozek T., Bąkała J., Podgórski P., Latkowska E., Myśliwa-Kurdziel B., Boroń P., Lenart-Boroń A., Bulanda K., Grad B., WęgrzynM., Nowicka B., Szczytowska W. & Kowaliński M. (2026): Insight into lichen physiology and biochemistry following exposure to rapid depressurization, vacuum conditions, and ionizing radiation—does the anhydrobiotic state and melanization protect lichens against cytotoxicity?. - Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, 239: 111756 [19 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.plaphy.2026.111756. This study tested the responses of lichen Cetraria aculeata to simulated extraterrestrial conditions, including rapid depressurization and exposure to vacuum and ionizing radiation. We studied lichens in metabolically active and anhydrobiotic states, including melanized and pale thalli, to assess whether lichen desiccation tolerance and melanin presence contribute to stress resistance. The results indicate that lichens are more sensitive to stress when hydrated. Reduced cell viability and increased membrane damage indicate that membranes are the main structures affected by rapid desiccation; however, membrane disruption proved to be largely non-oxidative. We also observed profound disturbances in antioxidant systems and in lipid and osmotic metabolism causing impaired cellular homeostasis. Chlorophyll a content was significantly reduced, suggesting the destabilization of chlorophyll a-rich reaction centers. Despite extensive photobiont cell damage, we observed a gradual recovery of photosynthetic activity and chlorophyll resynthesis after rehydration, indicating largely reversible damage and the remarkable regenerative ability of photobiont cells. Algae in melanized thalli showed better photosynthetic recovery likely due to melanin-dependent changes in the architecture of the cortex layer enhancing algal protection. Since accidental decompression is a real risk in pressurized spacecraft systems, our results clarify how lichens respond to such events and delineate their consequences. Keywords: Anhydrobiosis; Cetraria aculeata; Decompression; Extremotolerance; Ionizing radiation; Melanin; Vacuum.
39702	Henniffent R., Feltham B., Hodge J., Gillingham D., Francis B., Skeard F. & Wiersma Y. (2026): Title: An unusual discovery of Pectenia plumbea on a coniferous tree on the Island of Newfoundland. - Evansia, 43(3): 97–102. https://doi.org/10.1639/0747-9859-43.3.97. The blue felt lichen (Pectenia plumbea) is a cyanolichen of conservation concern in Atlantic Canada, typically restricted to coarse-barked hardwoods. Here, we report an unusual occurrence on white spruce in central Newfoundland, representing only the third documented conifer host in Newfoundland. Nine thalli were observed on the bark and exposed lignin of dead spruce branches, growing directly next to a trembling aspen that had no thalli. Bark and lignin pH measurements showed that the host spruce had higher pH values than non-host spruce and fell within the range of trembling aspen host trees. These results support the drip-zone hypothesis, whereby nutrient leachates from adjacent deciduous trees modify substrate chemistry. This observation highlights the importance of fine-scale environmental context in determining habitat suitability and suggests that the realized niche of P. plumbea may be more flexible than previously assumed. Keywords: Cyanolichens; bark pH; drip-zone hypothesis; habitat specificity; species-at-risk.
39701	Del-Prado R., Pizarro D., Alors D., Amo de Paz G., Rebollo Z., Sánchez M., Lumbsch H.T. & Divakar P.K. (2026): Divergence ime determines the performance of the fungal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) DNA barcode in the lichen-forming ascomycete genus Parmelina. - Journal of Fungi, 12(10): 720 [22 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/jof12100720. Molecular studies have repeatedly demonstrated that morphology-based species circumscriptions often underestimate the diversity of lichenized fungi by masking distinct evolutionary lineages under a single species name. In Parmelina, a lichen-forming ascomycete genus whose extant diversity originated during the Miocene and Pliocene, several cryptic species have recently been recognized. Here, we evaluated the performance of the fungal DNA barcode marker, the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, in discriminating species that diverged at different evolutionary times. ITS reliably discriminated all the species that originated during the Miocene, for which intra- and inter-lineage distances form a clean, non-overlapping barcode gap (0.0137–0.0162 substitutions/site), but it failed to resolve the two species complexes that radiated during the Pliocene. Barcode-gap analyses based on genetic-distance thresholds previously established for parmelioid lichens produced congruent results, confirming species discrimination among Miocene lineages while highlighting inconsistencies in the current circumscription of two Pliocene species complexes. We also provide a curated ITS DNA barcode reference library comprising 749 accurately identified specimens sampled across the geographic range of Parmelina. Expanded taxon sampling further revealed new country records for P. clandestina in Greece, Hungary, India, Norway, Slovakia, and Switzerland, and for P. mediterranea in France, Greece, Morocco, Turkey, and Switzerland. Our results demonstrate that the discriminatory power of the fungal ITS barcode depends on the evolutionary age of species divergence, successfully identifying older lineages while revealing limitations for more recently diverged taxa. Automated, distance-based delimitation with ABGD and ASAP independently recovered every Miocene lineage, split P. atricha into two entities and assigned the whole P. tiliacea aggregate to a single partition, corroborating this conclusion. Keywords: DNA barcoding; ITS; lichen-forming fungi; cryptic diversity; species delimitation; barcode gap; Parmeliaceae; Parmelina.
39700	Nickles G.R., Vaiana A., Park S.C., Broz K., Estes H.P., Llewellyn T., Drott M.T., Keller N.P. & Singh G. (2026): Tracing the origins of crmA megasynthase through lichen genomes. - Current Biology, 36(13): 3354–3366. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2026.05.036. The products of isocyanide synthase (ICS) biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) have been implicated in microbial interactions, pathogenesis, and metal homeostasis. While several ICS BGCs have been described as mediating metal-associated ecologies, the evolutionary history of these clusters is unexplored among Lecanoromycetes, a clade comprised predominantly of symbiotic, lichen-forming fungi (LFF), which are known to thrive in both metal-contaminated and scarce environments. Analyzing nearly 4,000 fungal genomes, including 90 Lecanoromycetes, we identified a significant 3-fold enrichment of ICS-encoding genes in lichenized fungi compared with non-lichenized counterparts. This expansion includes six distinct clades enriched in LFF. Evolutionary reconstruction uncovered a widespread “split” variant of the copper-responsive (crmA) pathway, where the ICS- and NRPS-like components are encoded on separate genes, contrasting to the canonical “fused” crmA megasynthase. Metabolic characterization and genetic deletions in Fusarium graminearum confirmed that this split architecture is functionally equivalent to the fused form. Our chemical analysis suggests the first evidence of a potential leucine-derived isocyanide metabolite. Phylogenetic reconstruction indicates that the fused crmA arose from a split ancestor whose NRPS-like subdomain evolved from a canonical thioester reductase architecture likely via domain replacement. Redefinition of the crmA pathway to include the split ICS/NRPS-like variant reveals that crmA is one of the most prevalent ICSs in the fungi. We developed a website (https://isocyanides.fungi.wisc.edu/) that facilitates the exploration and downloading of all major results in our study. Our work demonstrates how exploring understudied fungal lineages can define new specialized metabolism lineages and reshape our understanding of the evolution of broadly conserved biosynthetic pathways. Keywords: isocyanide synthase; fungal secondary metabolism; isocyanide; fusarium; biosynthetic genes; copper-responsive metabolite; metal.
39699	Андреев М.П., Урбанавичюс Г.П., Урбанавичене И.Н., Пчёлкин А.В., Макрый Т.В., Исмаилов А.Б., Конорева Л.А., Гимельбрант Д.Е., Степанчикова И.С., Кузнецова Е.С., Скирина И.Ф., Скирин Ф.В., Лиштва А.В., Толпышева Т.Ю., Чесноков С.В., Конорева Л.А., Катаева О.А., Давыдов Е.А., Жданов И.С., Желудева Е.В. & Истомина Н.Б. [Andreev M.P., Urbanavichus G.P., Urbanavichene I.N., Pchelkin A.V., Makryi T.V., Ismailov A.B., Konoreva L.A., Himelbrant D.E., Stepanchikova I.S., Kuznetsova E.S., Skirina I.F., Skirin F.V., Lishtva A.V., Tolpysheva T.Yu., Chesnokov S.V., Kataeva O.A., Davydov E.A., Zhdanov I.S., Zheludeva E.V. & Istomina N.B.] (2024): Лишайники [Lichens]. - In: Гельтман Д.В. [ред.] Красная книга Российской Федерации. Растения и грибы [In: Geltman D.V. (ed.), The Red Data Book of the Russian Federation. Plants and fungi], p. 705–780, Москва : ВНИИ "Экология" [Moscow : VNII «Ecologiya»]. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/414498934_Lichens_in_the_Red_Data_Book_of_the_Russian_Federation_2024. [in Russian with English abstract: ] The new edition of the Red Data Book of the Russian Federation (2024) includes 75 lichen species, of which 11 species are classified as “Critically Endangered” – Circinaria tominii (Oxner) Sohrabi, Gyalectidium colchicum Vězda, Lethariella intricata (Moris) Krog, Pectenia atlantica (Degel.) P.M. Jørg., L. Lindblom, Wedin & S. Ekman, Pectenia plumbea (Lightf.) P.M. Jørg., L. Lindblom, Wedin & S. Ekman, Ricasolia virens (With.) H.H. Blom & Tønsberg, Roccella phycopsis Ach., Strigula buxi Chodat, Strigula nitidula Mont., Teloschistes chrysophthalmus (L.) Th. Fr., Teloschistes flavicans (Sw.) Norman, 6 species as “Endangered” – Cladonia vulcani Savicz, Erioderma pedicellatum (Hue) P.M.Jørg., Leptogium arcticum P.M. Jørg., Oropogon asiaticus Asahina, Stereocaulon pseudodepreaultii Asahina, Tholurna dissimilis (Norman) Norman, 38 species as “Vulnerable” – Allocetraria stracheyi (C. Bab.) Kurok. & M.J. Lai, Anzia ornata (Zahlbr.) Asahina, Bryocaulon pseudosatoanum (Asahina) Kärnefelt, Bryoria fremontii (Tuck.) Brodo & D. Hawksw., Cetraria kamczatica Savicz, Cetrelia alaskana (W.L. Culb. & C.F. Culb.) W.L. Culb. & C.F. Culb., Circinaria affinis (Eversm.) Sohrabi, Circinaria esculenta (Pall.) Sohrabi, Coccocarpia erythroxyli (Spreng.) Swinscow & Krog, Coccocarpia palmicola (Spreng.) Arv. & D. Galloway, Dirinaria applanata (Fée) D.D. Awasthi, Evernia perfragilis Llano, Glossodium japonicum Zahlbr., Hypogymnia fragillima (Hillmann) Rass., Hypotrachyna cirrhata (Fr.) Divakar, A. Crespo, Sipman, Elix & Lumbsch, Lathagrium dichotomum (With.) Otálora, P.M. Jørg. & Wedin, Leptogium rivulare (Ach.) Mont., Letharia vulpina (L.) Hue, Lethariella togashii (Asahina) Krog, Menegazzia nipponica K.H. Moon, Kurok. & Kashiw., Menegazzia subsimilis (H. Magn.) R. Sant., Nephromopsis annae (Oxner) A. Thell & Divakar, Nephromopsis komarovii (Elenkin) J.C. Wei, Nephromopsis laii (A. Thell & Randlane) Saag & A. Thell, Nephromopsis ornata (Müll. Arg.) Hue, Nephromopsis rugosa Asahina, Pannaria lurida (Mont.) Nyl., Parmotrema arnoldii (Du Rietz) Hale, Parmotrema reticulatum (Taylor) M. Choisy, Ricasolia amplissima (Scop.) De Not., Seirophora lacunosa (Rupr.) Frödén, Stereocaulon exutum Nyl., Stereocaulon hokkaidense Asahina & I.M. Lamb, Stereocaulon saviczii Du Rietz, Sticta limbata (Sm.) Ach., Umbilicaria esculenta (Miyoshi) Minks, Usnea rubicunda Stirt., Usnocetraria oakesiana (Tuck.) M.J. Lai & J.C. Wei, 17 species as “Near Threatened” – Asahinea scholanderi (Llano) W.L. Culb. & C.F. Culb., Cetreliopsis asahinae (M. Satô) Randlane & A. Thell, Leptogium burnetiae C.W. Dodge, Leptogium hildenbrandii (Garov.) Nyl., Lobaria pulmonaria (L.) Hoffm., Lobaria retigera (Bory) Trevis., Masonhalea inermis (Nyl.) Lumbsch, M. Nelsen & A. Thell, Masonhalea richardsonii (Hook.) Kärnefelt, Menegazzia terebrata (Hoffm.) A. Massal., Nephromopsis laureri (Kremp.) Kurok., Punctelia rudecta (Ach.) Krog, Pyxine sorediata (Ach.) Mont., Stereocaulon dactylophyllum Flörke, Sticta arctica Degel., Sticta fuliginosa (Hoffm.) Ach., Tornabea scutellifera (With.) J.R. Laundon, Usnea florida (L.) F.H. Wigg., and 3 species as “Data Deficient” – Cladonia graciliformis Zahlbr., Dendriscosticta gelida Ant. Simon, Goward & T. Sprib., Evernia terrestris (Tomin) N.S. Golubk.
39698	Knudsen K., Hollinger J., Noell N. & Kocourková J. (2026): Acarospora nashii, new for California. - Bulletin of the California Lichen Society, 34(1): 1–2. . Acarospora nashii is reported new from California growing on Dimelaena oreina and Pleopsidium flavum. A brief updated description and photographs are provided.
39697	Adil G., Akberjan E. & Mamut R. (2026): The first complete mitochondrial genome of Lecanora argopholis and its phylogenetic implications for lichen-forming fungi. - Journal of Fungi, 12(10): 714 [13 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/jof12100714. We report the first complete mitochondrial genome of the crustose lichen-forming fungus Lecanora argopholis. The circular mitogenome is 48,790 bp in length, has an overall AT content of 70.4%, and contains 14 protein-coding genes (PCGs), two rRNA genes, and 29 tRNA genes. Comparative analysis of four Lecanora species showed that mitochondrial tRNA features were generally conserved, although limited variation in tRNA length and predicted base-pairing patterns was observed among the sampled taxa. Relative synonymous codon usage analysis of 13 shared mitochondrial PCGs revealed a similar preference for A/U-ending codons across the four species, indicating that this pattern is not unique to L. argopholis. Expanded synteny analysis of eight lichen-forming fungal mitogenomes identified conserved homologous blocks together with variation in mitochondrial gene order; among the sampled taxa, L. argopholis and L. cinereofusca showed the highest gene-order conservation. Phylogenetic analysis based on 14 concatenated mitochondrial PCGs from 17 lichen-forming fungi recovered L. argopholis as sister to L. cinereofusca, providing additional mitochondrial evidence relevant to the placement of L. argopholis within the taxonomically complex Lecanora s. lat. These results expand the mitogenomic resources available for Lecanora and provide comparative information on mitochondrial genome organization and evolution in lichen-forming fungi. Keywords: Lecanora argopholis; mitogenome; comparative analysis; genome synteny; phylogenetic analysis.
39696	Arias-Real R., Alcalde-Rey I., Garrido F., Delgado-Baquerizo M., Panettieri M. & de los Ríos A. (2026): Antarctic rocky outcrops as microbial diversity and biogeochemical hotspots. - FEMS Microbiology Ecology, 102(9): fiag101 [14 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1093/femsec/fiag101. Climate-driven deglaciation is rapidly exposing rocky outcrops in polar-alpine landscapes, creating novel habitats for organisms. Yet, the contribution of these new habitats to microbial diversity and biogeochemical processes remains largely overlooked. Here, we assessed how Antarctic rocky outcrops shape soil microbial diversity, organic matter (OM) formation, and nutrient cycling by comparing thin soils developed on rocky outcrops with soils from surrounding areas on Livingston Island, Antarctica. In these soils, we characterized bacterial and fungal communities, OM composition and extracellular enzyme activities using high-throughput sequencing, pyrolysis-GC/MS, and enzyme assays. Outcrop soils exhibited higher nutrient content and moisture, creating resource-rich microhabitats that supported distinct microbial communities shaped by strong habitat filtering. Bacterial communities differed mainly in composition, whereas fungal communities in outcrop soils showed higher local diversity and included specialized functional groups such as decomposers, contributing to greater functional capacity. Outcrop soils were also enriched in fresh, labile OM compared with the more transformed OM in surrounding soils, indicating contrasting soil development pathways. Overall, Antarctic rocky outcrops act as microbial and biogeochemical hotspots, fostering distinct functional microbial assemblages and enhancing OM build-up and nutrient cycling. As deglaciation advances, these microhabitats may influence microbial diversity and resource availability at the landscape scale. Keywords: Antarctica, biogeochemical cycles, climate change, organic matter dynamics, rocky outcrops, soil microbial communities.
39695	Sahoo B., Pradhan S., Dash S., Upreti D.K. & Rath B. (2026): Lichen metabolites as potential natural products: a review. - Discover Chemistry, 3: 524 [38 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1007/s44371-026-00932-x. Lichens, a unique and complex symbiotic association between fungi and photosynthetic partners (algae and/or cyanobacteria), represent a largely underexplored source of bioactive compounds with significant pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and industrial potential. They produce a diverse array of secondary metabolites such as usnic acid, atranorin, and vulpinic acid, showing antimicrobial, anticancer, antiviral, antioxidant, herbicidal, insecticidal, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory activities. The structural uniqueness and chemical diversity of lichen derived metabolites, combined with their ecological divergent distribution make them an invaluable reservoir of natural products for commercial exploitation. In recent years, growing global demand for natural therapeutics, ecofriendly cosmetics, and sustainable agricultural products has intensified interest in lichen bioresources as an alternative. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the major classes of lichen metabolites reported during the period from 1986 to 2026, with particular emphasis on their bioactivities, mechanisms of action, and current and potential future applications. Lichens might become “green gold” if contemporary biotechnological tools like microbial fermentation, metabolic engineering, and synthetic biology are combined with high throughput screening methods, green extraction strategies, and government backed entrepreneurial initiatives. Keywords: Bioactive compounds, Lichens, Nutraceutical, Pharmaceutical, Sustainable biotechnology.
39694	Stapper N.J. & John V. (2015): Monitoring climate change with lichens as bioindicators. - Pollution Atmosphérique, 226: 1–12. https://doi.org/10.4267/pollution-atmospherique.4936. Lichens are known to be very sensitive to environmental changes. Quite recently it was shown that they also respond to global warming.A mapping guideline (VDI 3957 Part 20) is under way specifying 45 «climate change indicators», all of which are epiphytic lichens that meet certain criteria related to Wirth’s revised ecological indicator figures, i.e. (10-K+T)/2 > 6 with N6, or if no indicator figure has been published, lichens with temperate-Mediterranean and sub Atlantic-Mediterranean distribution in Europe. To assess regional ecological consequences of global climate change, in Düsseldorf (Germany) and the surrounding Mettmann County, long term monitoring programs including epiphytic lichens were launched in 2008 and 2009, respectively, the results of which can be merged with those of earlier lichen studies done with the same methodology. Thus, the dynamic change of lichens on phorophytes selected according to VDI 3957 Part 13 could be analyzed over the period 2001 to 2013. Over the years, a total of 100 species were recorded. While the mean number of lichens per phorophyte increased only slightly, the mean number of climate change indicators per tree has at least doubled since 2001. The frequency of nitrophytic lichens (expressed as the proportion of the phorophytes with at least one thallus of the respective species) remains high, while acidophytic lichens are still declining. The frequency of climate change indicators, however, has been increasing steadily over the years: Punctelia subrudecta (+2,6 %/year) > P. jeckeri > P. borreri > Flavoparmelia soredians (+0,6 %/year) > Hypotrachyna afrorevoluta (+0,1 %/year) just to name a few species. Some of the indicator lichens, e.g. Parmotrema reticulatum or Physcia tribacioides, have never been recorded previously in Düsseldorf and the urban hinterland. It is suggested that these observations can, at least in part, be related to climate alterations, because in the area under investigation, mean annual temperature and the mean annual number of days with more than 25 °C are rising steadily. Keywords: epiphytic lichens, biomonitoring, climate change, urban climate, North-Western Germany.
39693	Brackel W. v. (2026): Catalogue of the lichenicolous fungi of Italy. - Borziana, 7: 17–170. https://doi.org/10.7320/Borziana.007.017. This catalogue provides a comprehensive synthesis of the lichenicolous fungi known from Italy, based on historical literature, recent studies, and extensive fieldwork conducted since 2006. After a brief overview of the history of lichenicolous mycology in Italy – from its beginnings in the mid-19th century through periods of stagnation and renewed research ‒ the work presents two annotated lists. The main list includes 518 taxa of genuine, obligately non-lichenised lichenicolous fungi recorded in Italy, while a second list comprises 76 taxa that are facultatively lichenicolous, slightly lichenised, or taxonomically uncertain. For each taxon, host species in Italy, commonly used synonyms, and regional records are provided. The catalogue documents both the remarkable work of the early enthusiasts during the "Golden Age" and the substantial increase in known diversity over the last decades, placing Italy among the best-studied regions worldwide for lichenicolous fungi and accounting for more than one fifth of all obligately lichenicolous, non-lichenised fungi currently known globally. Keywords: lichens, fungi, regional records.
39692	Munzi S., Estorninho Ramos M. & Ravera S. (2026): Advancing the knowledge of lichens in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area (Portugal). - Borziana, 7: 5–16. https://doi.org/10.7320/Borziana.007.005. This study presents new lichen records from two urban green areas in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area, contributing to Portugal's understudied mycobiota. A survey identified 64 species, including three new to Portugal and 21 new to the region. The findings underscore the lichenological richness of anthropized landscapes and highlight the value of citizen science initiatives, such as bioblitzes, in supporting biodiversity documentation. Keywords: Biodiversity, Citizen Science, Lichenized Ascomycetes.
39691	Jørgensen P.M. & Nimis P.L. (2026): The makers of Lichenology, to the end of the 20th century. - Borziana, 7(SI): 5–415. https://doi.org/10.7320/Borziana.007SI.005. This paper, initially conceived as an appendix to a forthcoming History of Lichenology, presents brief biographical accounts of 611 lichenologists who were active before the end of the 20th century. We have sought to cover the principal lichenological contributions of each individual, not merely recording the bare facts but, where possible, illuminating the circumstances surrounding their work. These short biographies will constitute an initial baseline for an online searchable database, which is intended to be expanded and amended in the coming years by the lichenological community. Key words: Biographies, botany, history, mycology, lichenologists.
39690	Konoreva L.A. & Chesnokov S.V. (2026): Lichens and lichenicolous fungi of Prins Karls Forland (Svalbard Archipelago). - Czech Polar Reports, 16(1): 63–86. https://doi.org/10.5817/CPR2026-1-5. The paper presents data on lichens and lichenicolous fungi for Prins Karls Forland (NW of Svalbard archipelago). For the island, 283 species of lichens and 21 lichenicolous fungi have been identified to date. Seventy species of lichens and 17 lichenicolous fungi are listed for the first time for the study area, of which Arthonia epipolytropa, Gyalecta peziza, Lasiosphaeriopsis christiansenii, Porpidia rugosa, and Sclerococcum protothallinum are reported for the first time for the Svalbard archipelago. The central part of Prins Karls Forland is the most studied now (157 taxa of investigated group identified). Thus, despite its small area and hard to reach, the territory of Prins Karls Forland has a high diversity of lichens. This is mainly due to the complexity of the geological formation of the territory and the high diversity of rocks. We might expect to find species here that are also typical of more southern Arctic regions considering the geographical location Prins Karls Forland in the western part of the Svalbard archipelago and the influence of the warm Gulf Stream on local microclimate. However, the island’s insular position, small area, and strong elongation from north to south, in the absence of deeply incised bays, result in the harsh influence of climatic conditions and, as a result, the wide distribution of species characteristic of the high-latitude Arctic and high-mountain regions. Keywords: lichens; new records; Arctic; distribution; rare species.
39689	Bişgin D., Güllü M. & Halici M.G. (2026): A new Lecidea species from Dismal Island (Antarctic Peninsula, Antarctica) supported by morphological, chemical, and nrITS phylogenetic evidence. - Czech Polar Reports, 16(1): 1–11. https://doi.org/10.5817/CPR2026-1-1. Antarctica remains one of the least explored regions of the world in terms of lichen diversity, and many remote localities still harbor undescribed taxa. In this study, a new saxicolous lichen species belonging to the genus Lecidea is described from Dismal Island, located in the East Antarctic Peninsula region, based on an integrative taxonomic approach combining morphological, anatomical, chemical, and nrITS phylogenetic evidence. The examined material was collected from ice-free rocky habitats and deposited in the Erciyes University Lichen Herbarium (ERCH). Morphological and anatomical observations were carried out using stereomicroscopy and light microscopy, while chemical characterization was performed using standard spot tests and thin-layer chromatography (TLC). Molecular analyses were based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of nuclear ribosomal DNA. The newly generated ITS sequence was analyzed together with 92 reference sequences retrieved from GenBank®, and phylogenetic relationships were inferred using Bayesian analysis. The results demonstrated that the studied specimen forms a distinct and well supported lineage within Lecidea, clearly separated from all currently sequenced congeners. Although phylogenetically closest to members of the Lecidea atrobrunnea complex and L. syncarpa, the new species differs consistently in several diagnostic characters: (1) dark brown, dull, crustose and areolate thallus, (2) small black lecideine apothecia, (3) dark brown epihymenium, an I− medulla and hymenium, an N+ red hymenial reaction, and (4) the absence of both prothallus and pycnidia. Chemically, TLC revealed (5) norstictic acid as the major secondary metabolite. The combination of these stable, nonoverlapping characters supports the recognition of the taxon as a distinct species, here named Lecidea devrimii. This study highlights the still underestimated lichen diversity of Antarctica and emphasizes the importance of integrative taxonomy in resolving species boundaries within morphologically complex lichen groups. Key words: Antarctica, Lecidea devrimii, molecular analysis, lichen biodiversity, new species; secondary metabolites, the Faure Islands.
39688	Temu S.G., Myovela H.H. & Hussein J.M. (2026): Lichen biomonitoring revisited: a multi-level framework incorporating symbiotic response and microbiome dynamics as early-warning indicators. - Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 33: 12953–12969. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-026-38123-x. Lichens are among the most widely used biological indicators of environmental quality because they integrate atmospheric pollutants and respond sensitively to environmental change. However, recent advances in lichen biology have expanded biomonitoring beyond traditional measures of pollutant accumulation, physiological injury, and community composition, creating the need for an updated synthesis. This review integrates current evidence on the biological basis, response mechanisms, environmental applications, and emerging frontiers of lichen biomonitoring. Classical approaches have been successfully applied to monitor air pollution, heavy metals, nitrogen deposition, and other environmental stressors, while recent studies demonstrate that symbiotic interactions and lichen-associated microbiomes provide additional, potentially earlier indicators of ecosystem disturbance. Building on this evidence, we propose a multi-level framework integrating six complementary biological domains: pollutant accumulation, physiological responses, community dynamics, functional traits, symbiotic interactions, and microbiome dynamics. This framework links established and emerging response pathways into a unified biomonitoring concept while acknowledging remaining challenges, including environmental variability, species-specific responses, methodological standardization, and geographic bias. Integrating conventional and emerging biological endpoints provides a more comprehensive and mechanistic foundation for lichen biomonitoring in a rapidly changing environment. Keywords: Air pollution · Environmental change · Symbiotic stress · Microbiome · Ecosystem monitoring.
39687	Cronvall E., Adler S., Niebuhr B., Sandström P. & Skarin A. (2026): Cross-species evaluation: Reindeer as an ecological evaluator of a satellite-based lichen cover map. - Ecological Indicators, 190: 115403 [13 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolind.2026.115403. Accurate maps of resources are important tools in wildlife and animal range management yet validating them across large spatial extents remains a challenge. We leveraged fine-scale GPS tracking of consumers and a strong consumer-resource relationship to perform large-scale evaluation of a resource map. Our aim was to present the first high-resolution ground lichen cover map for the Sámi reindeer winter grazing area in Sweden, and to complement traditional model validation methods by using 680,000 reindeer GPS relocations and the consumer-resource relationship between reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus) and ground lichens for ecological evaluation. We expected a successful map to be reflected in the reindeer use of lichen, and that predicted lichen cover would be a significant predictor in habitat selection models. The map was produced using a Generalised Additive Model trained on National Forest Inventory field data with Sentinel-2 imagery, forest variables, and soil type as predictors. The model explained 57.4% of the total variance in lichen cover. Our analyses supported both expectations: hurdle models showed that the odds of predicted lichen presence were 44% higher at reindeer-used than available locations, and used locations had 15% more predicted lichen cover than available locations. Integrated step-selection analyses confirmed consistent selection for predicted lichen cover, and adding the lichen map outperformed a simpler model including topographic and movement variables. Best performance was achieved combining predicted lichen cover with land cover classification. Our cross-species evaluation approach offers a complement to traditional statistical validation, applicable to other systems with strong consumer-resource relationships. Keywords: Reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus); Sámi Reindeer husbandry; Ground lichen; Terrestrial lichen; Reindeer lichen; Cladonia species; Cross-species validation; Consumer-resource relationship; Map validation; Resource mapping; Habitat map; Integrated step-selection functions (iSSF); Animal movement; GPS tracking; Generalised Additive Model (GAM); Sentinel-2; Remote sensing; NDVI; LiDAR.
39686	Leksin I., Khabibrakhmanova V., Beckett R. & Minibayeva F. (2026): How melanised lichens survive drying: transcriptomic insights into desiccation and UV-B cross-tolerance of Lobaria pulmonaria. - Journal of Plant Physiology, 326: 154870 [14 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jplph.2026.154870. Lichens are known for their remarkable ability to cope with a wide range of environmental stresses, particularly desiccation. Under natural conditions, lichens often experience both desiccation and ultraviolet (UV) irradiation simultaneously. Such a combination of stresses may promote the development of cross-tolerance mechanisms, but there have been few studies on these mechanisms in lichens. Previously, we reported that in the lichen Lobaria pulmonaria, UV-B induces synthesis of the dark pigment melanin and changes in gene expression and energy metabolism. The aim of the current study was to elucidate the molecular basis of lichen cross-tolerance to desiccation and UV-B stresses by characterizing the transcriptomic and metabolomic responses of pale (UV-B untreated) and melanised (UV-B treated) thalli to desiccation and rehydration. Transcriptome profiling revealed a set of genes encoding antioxidative enzymes, heat shock proteins, and enzymes of secondary metabolism that are up-regulated in response to both desiccation and UV-B irradiation. Mycobiont genes encoding antioxidative enzymes and enzymes of secondary metabolism were more highly up-regulated in pale than in melanised thalli during desiccation. Furthermore, during desiccation UV-B exposed thalli accumulated higher levels of the sugar alcohol arabitol and displayed greater photosystem II (PSII) activity and relative electron transport rate (rETR) than pale thalli. In summary, we demonstrate that UV-B exposure causes a variety of responses in the lichen L. pulmonaria, including melanisation, and these responses confer enhanced tolerance to both UV-B and desiccation stresses, revealing the existence of cross-tolerance mechanisms. Keywords: Cross-tolerance; Desiccation; Lichens; Melanisation; Polyols; Transcriptome; Ultraviolet radiation.
39685	Fałowska P., Dziurowicz P., Waszkiewicz K., Jelonkiewicz Ł., Sobucki M. & Węgrzyn M.H. (2026): A mechanistic understanding of Cladonio-Pinetum decline in the lichen Scots pine forests of Central Europe is crucial for effective forest management. - Forest Ecology and Management, 621: 124212 [19 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foreco.2026.124212. Lichen Scots pine forests (Cladonio-Pinetum; Natura 2000 habitat 91T0) are among the most oligotrophic and threatened habitats of European sandy lowlands, with Poland holding an estimated 68% of the EU resource. Their status is deteriorating, yet nationally representative thresholds remain lacking. We conducted a nationwide, paired assessment across 15 Forest Districts (60 plots; 300 relevés), contrasting lichen-dominated reference sites with bryophyte-dominated degraded sites, and integrating phytosociology, organic-horizon chemistry, stand structure, microclimate and ERA5-Land reanalysis. Despite pronounced regional summer warming (+0.78 °C per decade), thermal trajectories were decoupled from ground-layer degradation, which tracked stand architecture and sub-canopy light regime. Stands shared a comparable template in tree density, girth and age, but degraded plots carried a significantly denser canopy (76.0 vs 62.1%) and taller trees (13.9 vs 13.0 m) and developed thicker organic horizons (5.87 vs 3.60 cm). Soil nitrogen and organic carbon did not differ significantly; instead, the organic-horizon C/N ratio emerged as a pivotal edaphic indicator, elevated in degraded stands (95.8 vs 74.6). In the disturbed stands, lichen cover halved (61.8–30.4%) and richness fell (10.7–7.7 taxa) as bryophytes, chiefly Pleurozium schreberi, took over. Generalized additive models pinpointed dominance-shift thresholds at 66.9% canopy closure, 4.98 cm organic-horizon thickness and 13.12 m stand height, which we integrated into the cross-validated Lichen Scots Pine Forest Condition Index (LSPF–CI): a transferable 0–100 tool aligned with Natura 2000 status categories to guide targeted silviculture. By translating stand structure into breakpoints, these results move habitat assessment beyond expert judgment, providing managers with clear operational targets. These include thinning to reopen the canopy and, in the most degraded stands, removing the accumulated organic layer to arrest degradation and restore lichen habitat. More broadly, the study clarifies the structural drivers of this lichens-rich community and provides an evidence-based framework for monitoring and adaptive management of habitat 91T0 across its European range. Keywords: Terricolous lichens; Canopy closure; Soil C/N ratio; Ecological thresholds; 91T0; Natura 2000.
39684	Happacher I., Pichler G., Abt B., Tagirdzhanova G., Oberegger S., Kraihammer M., Faserl K., Sarg B., Decristoforo C., Türk R., Winkelmann G., Talbot N.J., Brock M., Kranner I., Haselwandter K. & Haas H. (2026): Siderophore production by the lichen fungus Xanthoria parietina supports its algal symbiont. - Nature Communications, 17: 8234 [15 p.] . https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-026-74988-9. Lichens are symbiotic associations between a fungal mycobiont and a photosynthetic photobiont. They thrive in nutrient-poor environments; yet the mechanisms underlying their adaptation to iron limitation remained largely unknown. Here, we characterize the iron acquisition system of Xanthoria parietina, a globally distributed lichen-forming fungus associated with the microalgal photobiont Trebouxia decolorans. We demonstrate that the mycobiont produces the siderophore ferrichrome and possesses the full genetic repertoire not only for siderophore biosynthesis, but also reductive iron assimilation, iron detoxification, and regulation. The ferrichrome-synthesizing non-ribosomal peptides synthetase exhibits a lichen-specific compact architecture but retains functionality when heterologously expressed in a non-lichenized ascomycete. Transcriptomic analysis and ferrichrome quantification reveal substrate-dependent regulation of the siderophore system. Importantly, ferrichrome promotes photobiont growth independent of extracellular iron reduction, indicating direct utilization. These findings provide the functional evidence of siderophore-mediated iron acquisition in a lichen symbiosis and highlight ferrichrome as a key mediator of mutualistic nutrient exchange.
39683	Hakobjanyan A.V., Shcherbatov R.E. & Pankratov T.A. (2026): Effects of cocultivation of lichenophilic yeasts with bacteria Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. - Microbiology, 95: 939–954. https://doi.org/10.1134/S0026261726601284. Lichens are complex systems, and the taxonomic structure of their microbial communities follows a number of patterns. Similar to bacteria, yeasts are integral components of the lichen symbioses. Their role in lichens is, however, presently unknown. Existence and nature of the interactions between yeasts and bacteria in lichens also remain unstudied. The goal of the present work was to assess in kinetic experiments the growth of eight yeast cultures previously isolated from lichens in the presence of two bacterial cultures, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Yeast growth was found to be suppressed in the presence of E. coli, while cocultivation with S. aureus did not result in antagonism. Assessment of two factors, the initial yeast population density and introduction of an additional carbon source (glucose), showed that adding an extra substrate to binary cultures with E. coli did not cause significant changes in their growth parameters. At the same time, initial concentration of yeast cells affected the parameters of growth kinetics in binary cultures. These data revealed relationships between the growth characteristics of the lichen-derived yeast cultures and the type of their bacterial partner. The effect of suppression of yeast growth activity after cultivation with bacteria was established. Keywords: cocultivation, yeasts, E. coli, S. aureus, biocidal activity, cell survival.
39682	Lendemer J.C. (2026): Recent literature on lichens—282. - Bryologist, 129(3): 256–264. https://doi.org/10.1639/0007-2745-129.3.256. Bibliography
39681	Torres-Benítez A., Acierno C., Nilo D., Cutellè R., Troncoso-Monsalve K., Aburto-Urriaga S., Novoa-Sánchez F., Sasso F.C., Russo V. & Caturano A. (2026): Lichen-derived bioactive compounds in diabetes and cardiovascular risk: Experimental evidence, mechanisms, and translational challenges. - Biomedicines, 14(9): 2083 [27 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14092083. Cardiometabolic disorders arise from interconnected metabolic, inflammatory, oxidative, mitochondrial, and vascular abnormalities. Lichens produce structurally diverse secondary metabolites, including depsides, depsidones, dibenzofurans, anthraquinones, and other phenolic compounds, whose experimental activities intersect several of these pathways. This narrative review examines the chemical diversity, biological actions, and translational potential of lichen-derived compounds in diabetes and cardiovascular risk modulation. Available studies describe antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, enzyme-inhibitory, antiglycation, cytoprotective, and vasomodulatory effects, but the evidence is predominantly based on chemical assays, molecular docking, in vitro experiments, and heterogeneous preclinical models. Direct demonstrations of improved insulin sensitivity, pancreatic β-cell function, endothelial function, lipid handling, or atherosclerosis remain limited, and human efficacy data are lacking. Translation is further constrained by incomplete chemical standardisation, uncertain bioavailability and target-tissue exposure, limited interaction data, and safety concerns. Usnic acid illustrates the central challenge: broad biological activity coexists with mitochondrial toxicity and clinically relevant hepatotoxic potential. Lichen metabolites therefore currently represent pharmacological probes and medicinal-chemistry scaffolds rather than clinically applicable interventions for diabetes or cardiovascular risk reduction. Future development requires compound-specific target validation, reproducible preparations, pharmacokinetic characterisation, functional disease endpoints, and rigorous safety assessment. Keywords: lichens; secondary metabolites; diabetes; cardiovascular disease; oxidative stress; inflammation; usnic acid.
39680	Weber L., Ahti T., Ivanovich-Hichins C., Kaasalainen U., Munyaneza E., Myllys L., Nyirakamenyero A., Nzarora A., Pino-Bodas R., Wabika Dumbo P. & Kantelinen A. (2026): Four new species to science and other contributions to the knowledge of lichens in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda. - Graphis Scripta, 38(5): 98–131. https://nhm2.uio.no/botanisk/lav/Graphis/38_5/GS_38_98.pdf. Results of a foray of the lichen flora in the montane rainforest in Nyungwe National Park, located in southwestern Rwanda, are presented. Morphological and molecular methods were used to identify species. Twenty-three lichen species for the Republic of Rwanda and one for Africa are reported for the first time. Furthermore, four species are described as new to science: Micarea rwandensis Kantelinen & L. M. Weber, Vainionora dressleri L. M. Weber & Ivanovich-Hichins, Vainionora impinga L. M. Weber & Ivanovich-Hichins and Zeora imbaga L. M. Weber & Ivanovich-Hichins. Different habitat descriptions, as well as the ecology and characteristics of species collected in the area are briefly presented.
39679	Yahr R., Chrismas N.A.M., Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Genome Acquisition Lab, Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective, Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team, Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations, Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team, Tree of Life Core Informatics collective, Darwin Tree of Life Consortium (2026): The genome sequence of Umbilicaria deusta (L. Baumg., 1790) (Umbilicariales: Umbilicariaceae) [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]. - Wellcome Open Research, 11: 573 [12 p.]. https://doi.org/10.12688/wellcomeopenres.27481.1. We present a genome assembly of Umbilicaria deusta (Peppered Rock Tripe; Ascomycota; Lecanoromycetes; Umbilicariales; Umbilicariaceae). The genome sequence has a total length of 40.76 megabases. Most of the assembly (95.36%) is scaffolded into 24 chromosomal pseudomolecules. The mitochondrial genome has been assembled, with a length of 100.51 kilobases. This assembly was generated as part of the Darwin Tree of Life project, which produces reference genomes for eukaryotic species found in Britain and Ireland.
39678	Borg N.H., Wedin M., Timdal E., Prieto M. & Simon A. (2026): Taxonomy and phylogeny of the lichen genus Bunodophoron (Sphaerophoraceae, Lecanorales) in New Caledonia, with the description of two new species. - MycoKeys, 140: 79-101. https://doi.org/10.3897/mycokeys.140.197771. This study presents a taxonomic revision of Bunodophoron in New Caledonia. Extensive fieldwork was conducted in the region, particularly in the montane rainforests of Grande Terre. An integrative approach was employed, in which specimens underwent morphological assessment, chemical analysis via thin-layer chromatography, and DNA sequencing for four molecular markers: ITS, β-tubulin, MCM7, and RPB1. Phylogenetic analyses were performed within a global framework, incorporating morphologically similar and related taxa from Australasia, the Neotropics, and the Paleotropics, including previously unsequenced taxa analyzed for the first time in this study. Using this approach, four species of Bunodophoron lichens were identified in New Caledonia, including two new to science, B. flagellare Ant.Simon, N.Borg & Wedin, sp. nov. and B. imbricatum Ant.Simon, N.Borg & Wedin, sp. nov.
39677	Benaud N., Machado de Lima N., Wong S.Y., Vázquez-Campos X., Majumdar P.R., Wilkins D., Montgomery K., Wiechers M., Summerell B.A. & Ferrari B.C. (2026): Integrating novel culturing and culture‐independent methods to unveil soil fungal dark matter, functional guilds and environmental drivers across Robinson Ridge, East Antarctica. - Mycology, 17(2): 635–658. https://doi.org/10.1080/21501203.2025.2579297. Global fungal diversity is estimated to range in the millions, yet it remains severely underexplored, especially in extreme environments. Fewer than 5% of species have been officially identified and characterised. Estimates suggest that 70%–90% of soil fungi remain uncultivable, often referred to as ‘fungal dark taxa’. This study shows a comprehensive assessment of the fungal diversity in Robinson Ridge, East Antarctica using both culturing and non-culture dependent methods. The soil community was assessed by ITS gene sequencing of 93 subsoil and 93 surface soils collected along 3 × 300 m long transects. Strains were isolated from soil following enrichment cultivation under oligotrophic conditions supplemented with excess hydrogen gas. Landscape heterogeneity significantly influenced the composition, diversity, and functionality of the communities. A high relative abundance of lichen-associated fungi was recorded in areas with low levels of nutrients and moisture. One hundred and thirty fungal strains were isolated, mainly comprising the classes Eurotiomycetes and Dothideomycetes. A large proportion of fungal ASVs were not shared between techniques, with an overlap of only 1.9% of the total produced sequences. Our study underscores the value of integrating culture-dependent and independent approaches to gain a more comprehensive understanding of fungal distribution, diversity, and functional potential. Keywords: Antarctica; Soil; cold adaptation; fungi; lichen.
39676	Yang Q.-X., Shahidin H., Xiao L.-T., Qiu X.-Y., Zeng H., Phurbu D., Wang Y.-Y. & Wei X.-L. (2026): Catalogue of fungi in China 7. New taxa of lichen-forming fungi. - Mycology, 17(2): 378–410. https://doi.org/10.1080/21501203.2025.2505480. China has high fungal diversity and needs to be continuously explored. In this study, we focused on lichen-forming fungi and reported 18 new taxa, including one new order, viz. Polysporiales, one new family, viz. Polysporiaceae, three new genera, viz. Polysporium, Shigatsia, and Weia, and 13 new species, viz. Filsoniana fabricola, Polysporium ulmusamaroides, Psora erecta, P. nigromarginata, P. polyphylla, Shigatsia abaensis, S. daii, S. pratensis, S. qomolangmana, Umbilicaria chentangensis, U. nyalamii, Upretia xizangensis, Weia dinggyensis. Morphological, chemical, and phylogenetic analyses were comprehensively used to support the solidity of these new taxa and the accuracy of their taxonomic placements. Among the 18 new taxa, 10 were collected from Xizang Autonomous Region, China, indicating that there is a high diversity of lichen-forming fungi in the surveyed areas, and more new species are expected to be described in future studies. The addition of lichen-forming fungi in the series of Catalogue of fungi in China will not only present the lichen species diversity, but also help present the fungal diversity in China. Keywords: Lecanoromycetes; New order; new family; new genera; new species.
39675	Martínez-Báez Téllez M.F., Ortega-Larrocea M.P., Guilbaud M.N. & van Wyk de Vries B. (2026): Basalt bioweathering from biological crusts in Xitle Volcano, Mexico. - Geomicrobiology Journal, 43(6): 686–703. https://doi.org/10.1080/01490451.2026.2642713. Volcanic rocks have diverse landforms, morphology and textures hosting a diversity of life. Colonization modifies rock structure and chemistry by bioweathering. We consider interactions between biological crusts and rock by bioweathering features on different Xitle volcano geoforms (300 AD, Mexico). We analyzed five representative, contrasting sites (scoria cone crater, lava tube, promontory, crevice wall and flat ropey lobe), assessing altitude, local climate, surrounding vegetation and rock properties. We documented initial physical / chemical bioweathering steps using different microscopies. We found physical bioweathering: surface penetration, fractures, mineral detachment, vesicle infilling, particle entrapment, endolithic colonization. Element mapping detected Ca, Na, Al, Mg concentrations in lichen thallus, also Si and Cl in lava tube bacterial biofilms. Vesicle boundary glass had K and Na concentration. Microprobe analysis detected no rock alteration near biocrusts. Different biological groups exert different bioweathering types and intensity. Lichens are the strongest bioweathering agents, associated with all features. Mosses are only associated with vesicle infilling and particle entrapment, while bacterial biofilms are associated with endolithic colonization and biofilm lithification. We see chemical limited alteration from biological communities, the lava surface being resistant both chemically and structurally, supporting highly biodiverse communities without modification over Xitle’s time scales and conditions. Keywords: SEM; Xitle volcano; basalt; biological rock crust; bioweathering; element mapping.
39674	Li H., Hyde K.D., Mapook A., Zhou Y., Lin J., Lin G., Xu G., Yang C., Dong W., Zhao H. & Doilom M. (2026): Bambusicolous fungi in Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, China: Establishing a new species, two new combinations, and a new synonym in Ebollia. - Phytotaxa, 774(1): 1–19. https://doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.774.1.1. Bambusicolous fungi were relatively well-documented in Hong Kong SAR during the early 2000s; however, subsequent studies have largely shifted to southwestern China and Thailand, leaving Guangdong Province, a key region within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, largely unexplored in this regard. In the present study, a previously unknown species was isolated from decaying bamboo in Guangdong Province, China. Morphological characteristics and multi-locus phylogenetic analysis of combined LSU, ITS, and SSU sequence data identified the collection as a novel species, namely Ebollia bambusae. The new species is distinguished from the other sexual species within Ebollia by its hemispherical apothecia with a partially exposed opening, rather than subglobose to globose apothecia with an entirely exposed opening. In addition, Fitzroyomyces filiformis and F. pseudopandanicola are transferred to Ebollia as E. filiformis and E. pseudopandanicola, respectively. Fitzroyomyces heterocladae is synonymized under Ebollia carnea. The results further enrich the known diversity of Ebollia associated with bamboo substrates in China, and provide new insights into the taxonomy and phylogeny of the genus. Key words: 1 new species, bambusicolous fungi, Stictidaceae, South China, sexual morph. [a range of lichenised taxa was included into phylogeny]
39673	Wang H. & Xu J. (2026): Revisiting the therapeutic potential of lichen derived secondary metabolite atranorin: From pharmacological activities to mechanism of action. - Natural Product Communications, 21(9): 1–26. https://doi.org/10.1177/1934578X2614883. [a review] Atranorin, a secondary metabolite predominantly found in the cortical layer of numerous lichen species, has garnered significant attention due to its diverse pharmacological properties, yet a systematic and up-to-date review remains lacking. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the biosynthetic pathway, pharmacokinetics, toxicological profile, and therapeutic potential of atranorin, with particular emphasis on its mechanism of action and therapeutic targets. Atranorin exhibits broad spectrum activities against diverse cancers, including melanoma, prostate cancer, gastric cancer, glioblastoma, breast cancer, cervical cancer, lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer, ovarian cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, and leukemia. The underlying mechanism involves the activation of apoptosis and ferroptosis, inhibition of Akt-Bcl-xL mediated aerobic glycolysis, inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin and its downstream pathway. Besides anti-tumor, Atranorin also exerts anti-inflammatory activities through blocking ASC mediated NLRP3 inflammasome activation and protects against inflammatory diseases, including systemic inflammation, gouty arthritis, and ulcerative colitis. Moreover, Atranorin possesses neuroprotective, anti-diabetic complication and antimicrobial activities and the mechanism has been elucidated. Notably, a panel of therapeutic targets of Atranorin have been identified and verified, including DUSP3, PTPN1, Akt, ASC, Decr1 and ZIKV Envelope protein. Still, some issues await further investigation, such as incomplete in vivo pharmacokinetic data, poor aqueous solubility, and insufficiently validated targets. In summary, this review provides a mechanistic and target-based theoretical foundation for the further development and clinical translation of Atranorin as a novel natural therapeutic agent. Keywords: atranorin, lichen, pharmacological activity, mechanism of action, target.
39672	Haldeman M. & McCune B. (2026): Umbonidiscus rhizocarpoides (Umbonidiscaceae, Lecanoromycetidae), a new species of saxicolous, crustose lichen in a new monotypic family from Northwestern North America. - Bryologist, 129(3): 220–231. https://doi.org/10.1639/0007-2745-129.3.220. We describe the new species Umbonidiscus rhizocarpoides from Alaska, California and Washington, U.S.A., as well as British Columbia, Canada. The saxicolous lichen has a brown, crustose to subsquamulose thallus and apothecia that are lecideine with broad margins and usually one or more umbos on each disk. Spores are pigmented and 1-septate giving the overall impression of a member of the Rhizocarpon badioatrum group. The asci are prototunicate, disintegrating at maturity. Phylogenetic analysis on multilocus data sets of ITS, nuLSU, and mtSSU place the new species in an isolated clade between Catillariaceae and Caliciales, distant from Rhizocarpon. Based on this placement we formally introduce a new monotypic genus Umbonidiscus and family Umbonidiscaceae for this taxon. Keywords: biodiversity, Cascade Mountains, Kenai Fjords, lichen systematics, Siskiyou Mountains, three new taxa.
39671	Кузнецова Е.С., Степанчикова И.С., Тимофеева Е.А., Чернышова В.А., Гимельбрант Д.Е. & Стариков Д.А. [Kuznetsova E.S., Stepanchikova I.S., Timofeeva E.A., Chernyshova V.A., Himelbrant D.E. & Starikov D. A.] (2026): Материалы к лихенофлоре Нижнесвирского государственного заповедника (Ленинградская область): новые находки и охраняемые виды [Contributions to the lichen flora of the Nizhnesvirsky State Nature Reserve (Leningrad Region): new records and protected taxa]. - Вестник Тверского государственного университета. Серия: Биология и экология [Vestnik/Herald of Tver State University. Series: Biology and Ecology], 2026/2(82): 191–201. DOI: 10.26456/vtbio468. [in Russian with English abstract: ] Field studies in the territory of the Nizhnesvirsky State Reserve were conducted in the summer 2025. During the survey, 17 species of lichens, three species of non-lichenized saprobic fungi, and two lichenicolous fungi were identified, all of which proved to be new records for the Reserve. Among them, six species are new to the eastern part of the Leningrad Region. The localities of 10 protected species identified during the 1999-2002 study have been verified and partially confirmed. Keywords: Leningrad Region, North-West European Russia, protected species.
39670	Weerakoon B., Wolseley P., Wijesundara S.. Nissanka S. & Weerakoon G. (2025): Lichens of Sri Lanka: Past discoveries, present knowledge, and future directions. - Journal of the National Science Foundation of Sri Lanka, 53(3): 207–217. http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/jnsfsr.v53i3.12582. Lichens are an important component of Sri Lankan biodiversity and have contributed greatly to the tropical diversity as well as to their application as bioindicators of changing environmental conditions. This review summarises 49 selected research publications on the taxonomic and chemical diversity of lichens, their application as bioindicators, and as a source of bioactive compounds that have medicinal properties against microorganisms with the potential of curing some diseases. The chemical properties of lichens and associated fungi and mycobionts have been a major focus in recent years, and several useful compounds have been identified that have benefits for human health. Several areas of the country are well surveyed and further surveys in new areas will aim to discover new species and document lichen diversity, and responses to environmental pollution. These results highlighted the importance of ongoing research in Sri Lanka in a tropical and global lichen context. Keywords: Bio-indicators; lichen diversity; pollution; taxonomy; tropical forests.
39669	Kumar V. & Uniyal S.K. (2026): Rinodina alpina sp. nov. (Ascomycota, Physciaceae): A new corticolous lichen from the Northwestern Himalaya, India. - Feddes Repertorium, 137(3): e70156 [5 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1002/fedr.70156. A new species Rinodina alpina Vish. Kum. & S.K. Uniyal is described from the alpine region of Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary, Himachal Pradesh, India. The new taxon is characterized by a thin, continuous to rimose-areolate, greenish-gray to gray thallus, without vegetative propagules, solitary to contiguous apothecia, brown to dark brown and epruinose, apothecial discs and small, ellipsoid, Dirinaria-type ascospores measuring 12.5–16.5 μm × 6.5–9.5 μm and the absence of secondary metabolites. A detailed description together with illustrations, habitat and ecology, and comparison with closely allied taxa are provided herein. Keywords: biodiversity | Caliciales | Himalaya | lichenized fungi | taxonomy.
39668	Lücking R., Torres J.-M., Elix J.A., Viñas-Portilla C. & Moncada B. (2026): Corrigendum to: Six new species of Sporostigma from Cuba and Colombia and confirmed placement of the genus in the Arthothelium-Pachnolepia-Snippocia-Tylophoron clade in Arthoniaceae. - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(2): 271. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0020.
39667	Miranda-González R., Lücking R., Herrera-Campos M.A. & Campos-Cerda F. (2026): Corrigendum to: Alloarthopyrenia aptrootiana sp. nov. (Trypetheliaceae), the second recognized species in the genus and the first tropical member of Alloarthopyrenia, with a revised taxonomic concept for Arthopyrenia cinereopruinosa. - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(2): 272. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0021.
39666	Darmostuk V., Sira O., Gromakova A. & Khodosovtsev A. (2026): Lichenicolous fungi of the steppe zone of Ukraine: taxonomic diversity and phylogenetic notes. - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(2): 273–318. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0022. Lichenicolous fungi represent an essential, but still insufficiently studied, component of the mycobiota of Europe. The steppe zone of Ukraine, despite its high ecological heterogeneity and conservation importance, has remained particularly underexplored. In this study, we provide a comprehensive revision of lichenicolous fungi occurring in the steppe zone of Ukraine based on extensive field collections from the last decade and a critical evaluation of published data. A total of 168 species are confirmed for the region, including ten species reported here for the first time from Ukraine: Arthonia urceolata, Endococcus verrucosus, Gonatophragmium lichenicola, Lichenostigma chlaroterae, Llanorella ramalinae, Nesolechia fusca, Spirographa skorinae, Tremella celata, T. parietinae, and Zyzygomyces physconiae. Molecular data further clarify the phylogenetic position of Phoma candelariellae, which forms an isolated lineage within Phaeosphaeriaceae. We introduce the new genus Phomella and provide a new combination, Phomella candelariellae. Several previously unknown host associations are documented, including Calogaya saxicola as a new host for Chaetopyrena penicillata; Cetraria aculeata for Cladosporium licheniphilum; Circinaria hispida, Xanthoparmelia camtschadalis, and X. pokornyi for Didymocyrtis cladoniicola; Xanthoria monofoliosa for Didymocyrtis epiphyscia; Xanthoparmelia camtschadalis for both Epithamnolia xanthoriae and Nesolechia fusca; and Xanthoria parietina for Protocreopsis globulosa. Plowrightia mereschkowskyi is considered a new synonym for Arthonia urceolata. Keywords: biodiversity; new genus; Phaeosphaeriaceae; Phomella; Plowrightia; southern Ukraine.
39665	Guzow-Krzemińska B., Kukwa M. & Ossowska E.A. (2026): Phenotypic and phylogenetic evidence reveals the position of Parmelia skultii in a new monotypic genus Arneparmelia within Parmeliaceae. - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(2): 319–331. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0023. The new monotypic genus Arneparmelia is introduced on the basis of phylogenetic and phenotypic evidence. The new combination, A. skultii, is proposed. Phylogenetic analyses using nuITS, nuLSU, mtSSU, and mcm7 markers place the new genus close to Parmelia and Notoparmelia, although relationships among these genera remain incompletely resolved. The distinction between these three lineages as separate genera is also reflected in their morphological, chemical and geographical differences. Arneparmelia is characterized by a foliose, dark brown to black thallus with a black, stiff rim around the lobes, the upper surface covered by a bluish-white to lilac pruina and with silver, marginal or rarely laminal pseudocyphellae and by the presence of norstictic acid in high concentrations. The thalli of most species belonging to Parmelia and Notoparmelia exhibit a range of grey shades. The presence of a black margin is rarely observed and is found in only a few Parmelia species, and it is always absent in Notoparmelia. The pruina is always absent in Notoparmelia, and, when it is present in Parmelia species, its color is white. The presence of norstictic acid is rare and it is never present in high concentration in Parmelia and the substance is absent in Notoparmelia. The distribution of Arneparmelia is predominantly Arctic-Alpine. Species of the genus Parmelia are widely distributed, but Notoparmelia occurs in the Southern Hemisphere. Key words: arctic species, Ascomycota, integrative taxonomy, new combination, new genus, parmelioid lichens.
39664	Svensson M. (2026): A new lignicolous species of Micarea (Lecanoromycetes, Ectolechiaceae) from Sweden. - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(2): 332–339. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0024. The new lignicolous species Micarea latispora is described from central Sweden based on morphological and molecular evidence. The species grows on decaying wood of deciduous trees, particularly Populus tremula, in open to semi-shaded conditions, and is characterized by Sedifolia-grey pigmentation in the epithecium and hymenium, unicellular, often ovoid ascospores, and by containing gyrophoric acid. It is similar to M. misella, from which it differs in having broader ascospores [(3–)3.5–4.5(–5) μm wide vs. 2–3(–3.5) μm in M. misella], a better developed thallus containing gyrophoric acid, and the absence of stipitate pycnidia. Micarea denigrata, which also contains gyrophoric acid and has similar apothecia, differs by having narrower ascospores [2–3.5(–4) μm] that are predominantly 1-septate rather than unicellular. Micarea latispora is currently known from three provinces in central Sweden, but is likely more widespread and may have been overlooked due to its superficial resemblance to related species. Key words: Ascomycota, Lecanorales, lichens, molecular phylogenetics, secondary chemistry, taxonomy.
39663	Pilecka-Ulcugaceva J., Miezaka P., Grave J., Straupe I. & Grinfelde I. (2026): Lichen transplantation for assessing intra-urban environmental stress: A case study in Jelgava, Latvia. - Environments, 13(9): 495 [13 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/environments13090495. Lichen transplantation can reveal spatial variation in biological responses across urban environments, but visible vitality cannot identify specific pollutants. We transplanted the epiphytic lichen Hypogymnia physodes from a presumed lower-impact forest area to 20 sites in Jelgava, Latvia and assessed its visible condition monthly for 243 days. The primary endpoint was first-observed necrosis; discoloration was retained as a descriptive secondary state. Thirteen primary transplants developed necrosis, first detected between days 62 and 215. One transplant was right-censored at day 123 after pruning, and six had no observed necrosis by day 243. Kaplan–Meier analysis gave a median time to first-observed necrosis of 184 days (20 primary transplants; 13 events; and 7 censored). A descriptive Urban Stress Index summarized event timing for 19 sites with complete follow-up. Correlations between this index and land-use proportions were statistically non-significant. Exploratory correlations with co-located winter snow Pb and Zn concentrations were negative, contrary to a simple metal-toxicity interpretation. The observed necrosis may reflect altered environmental conditions after transplantation rather than metal accumulation; absent concurrent air and thallus chemistry, microcli-mate measurements, and site replication, pollutant-source attribution is precluded. The approach is therefore best used for exploratory spatial screening and hypothesis generation. Keywords: Hypogymnia physodes; epiphytic lichens; time-to-event analysis; visual vitality; right-censoring; urban microenvironment; exploratory biomonitoring.
39662	Bhandari S., Bisht P., Pundir R., Tomar R., Bisht S., Rawat P., Sharma A., Nagraik R. & Singh N. (2026): Biogenic Se-CuO Nanocomposites from Lichen Parmotrema nilgherrense: Structural Insights, Photocatalytic Performance, and Antimicrobial Potential. - BioNanoScience, 16: 513 [23 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12668-026-02758-4. Biogenic nanocomposites are a promising area of advanced materials research, offering multifunctional properties for environmental remediation and antimicrobial therapy, and represent a sustainable frontier. In this study, metabolites from the lichen Parmotrema nilgherrense were used to produce stable Se-CuO nanocomposites with an optical bandgap of 3.12 eV and a negative surface charge (− 38.2 mV). Structural analysis confirmed phase purity and the presence of a bio-organic capping layer. Photocatalytic evaluation under natural sunlight showed that Congo Red (CR) and Methyl Red (MR) were efficiently degraded by 88.16% and 95.05% within 135 and 120 min, respectively. Kinetic analysis confirmed pseudo-first-order behavior, with rate constants of ~ 0.016 min⁻¹ (CR) and ~ 0.017 min⁻¹ (MR, post-induction phase). The improved performance is attributed to effective interfacial charge-carrier separation and the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that mineralize azo chromophores into harmless final products. Antimicrobial assays demonstrated dose-dependent inhibition of P. aeruginosa and C. glabrata, with results comparable to or better than conventional antibiotic activity in certain instances. The combination of the metallic core and lichen metabolites highlights the dual role of the Se-CuO nanocomposite as an efficient photocatalytic agent and a green antimicrobial agent. All of these results indicate that biogenic Se-CuO nanocomposites are promising materials for sustainable wastewater treatment and biomedical applications. Keywords: Biogenic synthesis · Se-CuO nanocomposite · Photocatalytic degradation · Antimicrobial activity · Green nanotechnology.
39661	Solhaug K.A., Kaimakou K., Ekanayake D.N.H., Nieves Solera Guerrero & Gauslaa Y. (2026): Far-red light enhances photosynthesis in the shade-adapted old forest lichen Lobaria pulmonaria. - Oecologia, 208: 107 [12 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00442-026-05942-1. Far-red (FR) light (700–750 nm) is strongly enriched beneath forest canopies, but its impact on photosynthesis in shade-adapted lichens is not well understood. We investigated the role of FR light in photosynthesis of Lobaria pulmonaria, an oldforest cephalolichen. Spectral measurements showed that FR photons contributed up to 32% of the extended photosynthetic photon flux density (ePPFD; 400–750 nm) under the canopy, compared to only 11% in open areas. Gas exchange data showed that FR light alone supported moderate CO2 uptake, but photosynthetic rates increased markedly when 50–100% FR was combined with background red light (R), demonstrating the Emerson enhancement effect. When comparing absorbed photons, FR light was even more efficient than R. Chlorophyll fluorescence data indicated that conventional electron transport rate (ETR) calculations often overestimate photosynthetic activity under high FR, underscoring the need for improved methods. These results suggest that FR light is crucial for lichen growth and survival in shaded forests. We recommend using ePPFD sensors in ecological studies to more accurately quantify relevant light availability for photosynthetic organisms. Keywords: Far-red light · ePPFD · Photosynthesis · Forest canopy · Epiphytic lichens · Spectral adaptation · Shade adaptation.
39660	Martínez-Báez Téllez M.F., Ortega-Larrocea M.P., Guilbaud M.-N., Jouffret L. & van Wyk de Vries B. (2026): Ecology and bioreceptivity of basaltic rocks from Xitle volcano in Mexico. - Scientific Reports, 16: 24326 [20 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-48812-9. Monogenetic basaltic volcanoes, the most common volcano type on Earth, produce rock surfaces with diverse morphological and textural characteristics promoting wide biodiversity. We assess ecological colonization related to volcanic rock bioreceptivity for biological rock crust communities on Xitle volcano (Mexico City). We assessed the five main volcanic geoforms present: crater, lava tube, promontory, crevasse wall and flat lobe. Climatic conditions (insolation, altitude, humidity, temperature) and biological crust diversity were registered. Thin sections were made for rock physical properties: total porosity, pore size and surface texture. Mineral analysis through microprobe and X-ray diffraction was done. For the rock-life interface, we used optical, petrographic, scanning electron and confocal microscopes. The crust communities contain crustose, foliose, powdery and fruticose lichens; mosses, liverworts, algae, cyanobacteria and bacterial biofilms. The rocks vary significantly in porosity, texture and the community structure. Alpha diversity correlates with porosity, except for the tube being a completely different environment. Beta diversity analysis shows most similarity for flat lobe and promontory (43%). We conclude that rock properties like porosity are important for biodiversity and extrinsic factors like geomorphology have a major role. We introduce bioreceptivity study into natural field sites, broadening bioreceptivity research. We show that it is a useful ecological concept to explore the multiple ecological niches of lava flows and we illustrate the great biodiversity of basaltic volcanoes, and by extension the value of basalt for ecological construction. Keywords: Bioreceptivity, Basalt, Xitle volcano, Colonization, Biological rock crust, Lava, Primary ecological succession.
39659	Kikowska M., Danek K., Studzińska-Sroka E. & Szopa A. (2026): Lichen-derived elicitors (Evernia prunastri extract and usnic acid) enhance phenolic compound accumulation in agitated shoot cultures of Lychnis flos-cuculi. - Plant Cell, Tissue and Organ Culture, 166: 60 [12 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11240-026-03563-3. Lychnis flos-cuculi L. is a plant species valued for its rich content of phenolic compounds and traditional therapeutic applications; however, the decline of natural populations necessitates the development of alternative biomass sources. The present study investigated the effect of biotic elicitation with Evernia prunastri (L.) Ach. thallus extract and usnic acid on phenolic compound accumulation in in vitro shoot cultures of L. flos-cuculi. Shoots were cultivated in liquid Murashige and Skoog medium under shake-flask conditions and treated with E. prunastri thallus extract (1 mg/mL–3 mg/mL) or (+)-usnic acid previously isolated from E. prunastri (6.25–25 µM) for 24, 72, 144, and 192 h. The concentrations of selected phenolic acids and flavonoids were determined by HPLC-DAD. The elicitation treatments did not adversely affect shoot morphology or physiological status; however, biomass growth generally decreased with increasing elicitor concentration and exposure time. Four phenolic acids (caffeic, ferulic, p-coumaric, and protocatechuic acids) and three flavonoids (apigenin, luteolin, and vitexin) were identified in the shoot biomass. The highest phenolic acid accumulation following elicitation with E. prunastri thallus extract was confirmed after 192 h at 3 mg/mL, particularly for p-coumaric acid (14.21 mg/100 g DW). Usnic acid proved to be an effective elicitor of flavonoid biosynthesis, resulting in the highest apigenin content (17.81 mg/100 g DW) after 192 h treatment with 25 µM usnic acid. The results demonstrate that biotic elicitation with lichen-derived compounds effectively enhances the production of valuable phenolic metabolites in L. flos-cuculi in vitro cultures. Therefore, agitated shoot cultures represent a promising sustainable source of bioactive compounds for pharmaceutical and biotechnological applications. Key message: Biotic elicitation with Evernia prunastri extract and usnic acid enhanced the accumulation of phenolic acids and flavo- noids in Lychnis flos-cuculi in vitro shoot cultures. Keywords: Ragged robin · In vitro shoot cultures · Shoots in liquid medium · Phenolic acids · Flavonoids.
39658	Hoenicka H., Ulrich K., Haffner C., Starczak M., Gackowski D., Bubner B. & Ulrich A. (2026): Microbiome analysis and epigenetic patterns revealed distinct differences between two elm species with contrasting Dutch elm disease resistance. - Microbiome, 14: 204 [21 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40168-026-02488-5. Background: Dutch elm disease (DED), caused by the fungus Ophiostoma novo-ulmi, has devastated elm species in Europe and North America for over a century. While the Chinese elm (Ulmus parvifolia) frequently displays notable resistance to DED, the European wych elm (Ulmus glabra) remains highly susceptible. Understanding microbiome interaction and epigenetic factors might help to explain this contrasting resilience and subsequently improve disease management. Results: Seedlings of both elm species were germinated and maintained under identical environmental conditions. Comparative metabarcoding revealed distinct differences in bacterial and eukaryotic microbiomes, as well as in their associations with lichenized fungi and their photobiont algae. In U. parvifolia, 24 eukaryotic and 14 bacterial taxa were identified as the most differentially abundant microbiome components, and exhibited significantly different levels compared to U. glabra. In particular, Leotiomycetes fungi and Rhizobiales bacteria, both previously implicated in resistance to pathogens, were strongly enriched in U. parvifolia. Lichenized fungi and chlorophyte algae were likewise more abundant in U. parvifolia. In U. glabra, 11 eukaryotic and 16 bacterial taxa were significantly more abundant, including Nocardioides bacteria and Leptospora fungi. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry revealed that, compared to U. glabra, U. parvifolia exhibited higher levels of 5-(hydroxymethyl)-2′-deoxycytidine and lower levels of 5-methyl-2′-deoxycytidine and N6-methyl-2′-deoxyadenosine in DNA, as well as increased amounts of 5-methylcytidine, N6-methyladenosine, and 5-hydroxymethyluridine in RNA. The elevated levels of well-established epigenetic markers in DNA and RNA are remarkable. However, it remains unclear what part of the holobiont may be responsible for this effect. Conclusions: The contrasting susceptibility of Chinese and European elms to DED correlates with pronounced differences in their associated microbial communities and lichens, as well as in patterns of epigenetic nucleoside modifications. In particular, the enrichment of specific stress-associated microbiome components, together with lichen associations and elevated levels of modified DNA and RNA nucleosides in U. parvifolia, may underlie its increased tolerance to DED. Although this study did not identify the factors responsible for DED resistance, it provides valuable insights into microbiomic and epigenetic features that could contribute to the development of new approaches to combat DED.
39657	Fernandez-Bunster G., Quiñones-Sobarzo N. & Tognarelli J. (2026): Molecular phylogeny and ecological diversity of endolichenic fungi inhabiting Acarospora schleicheri (Ach.) A. Massal, isolated from a Chilean Andean zone. - Scientific Reports, 16: 26077 [14 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-56022-6. High-altitude ecosystems in the Andes present diverse extreme environmental conditions, yet the fungal biodiversity associated with crustose lichens remains largely unexplored. This study investigated the culturable fraction of the Endolichenic Fungi (ELF) community associated with the lichen Acarospora schleicheri (Ach.) A. Massal, collected from the Chilean Altiplano. Using culture-dependent techniques, fungal strains were isolated and identified through macro- and micro-morphological characterization combined with molecular phylogenetics of the Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) region. To ensure taxonomic robustness, phylogenetic analyses were performed separately for each identified genus. The results revealed a diverse assemblage dominated by the classes Dothideomycetes and Eurotiomycetes, with Cladosporium and Alternaria being the most representative. Remarkably, we report the presence of Monascus sp. and the basidiomycetous yeast Sporobolomyces reniformis within the lichen thallus, representing a novel record for this host as an ELF. The prevalence of pigmented genera suggests that the ELF community in A. schleicheri may possess specific adaptations to withstand high UV radiation and desiccation. These findings expand the known biogeography of lichen-associated fungi and highlight the Andean lichenosphere as a reservoir of stress-tolerant microbial lineages. Keywords Lichens, Acarospora, Endolichenic fungi, Lichenosphere, Chilean Andes, Monascus.
39656	Rajaprabu N., Vasanthakumar A., Ponnusamy P., Govindarajan R.K., Alhomaidi E., Alsubait J., Rabbee M.F., Piskov S., Rzhepakovsky I. & Nagdalian A. (2026): Lichen-derived secondary metabolites and endophytic fungi as novel antidiabetic leads: Xylaria curta extract preserves β-cell viability and SUR1-mediated glucose sensing. - 3 Biotech, 16: 393 [18 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13205-026-05031-3. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), driven by progressive pancreatic β-cell dysfunction and impaired insulin secretion, is a major global health burden, and new antidiabetic leads with β-cell-protective potential are needed. The sulfonylurea receptor 1 (SUR1), which gates ATP-sensitive potassium channels controlling pancreatic β-cell insulin release, is a validated but still underexploited antidiabetic drug target. Natural products derived from lichens and their associated endolichenic fungi (ELF) offer promising sources of bioactive secondary metabolites with therapeutic potential. This study investigated 20 lichen- and endolichenic fungal-derived compounds against pancreatic SUR1 using integrated molecular docking, biochemical assays, and pancreatic β-cell models. Molecular docking revealed that anthracen-9-one (from Ramalina conduplicans) and 2-methylresorcinol from Parmotrema reticulatum exhibited superior binding affinities (total energy: -96.64 and − 67.93 kcal/mol, respectively) compared to glibenclamide (-85.02 kcal/mol). In alloxan-induced RIN-5 F pancreatic β-cell lines, the chloroform extract of endolichenic fungus Xylaria curta (XCC) demonstrated potent cytoprotection, with 95.53% cell viability at 25 µg/mL. Treatment with XCC dose-dependently inhibited α-amylase activity (51% at 50 µg/mL) and enhanced glucose utilization (125% at 50 µg/mL), while suppressing alloxan-induced apoptosis. Mechanistically, active compounds stabilized key regulatory residues (THR-107, GLN-339, SER-336) in the SUR1 binding pocket, preserving insulin secretion capacity. These findings establish lichenic metabolites, particularly from ELF, contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG-3) for Good Health and Well-being, specifically addressing the global burden of diabetes mellitus. Consequently, DNA sequences of X. curta and M. fragilis were deposited in NCBI with accession numbers for reference and future studies. Keywords: Anthracen-9-one · Diabetes mellitus · Endolichenic fungi · Lichens · Mucor fragilis · Parmotrema reticulatum · Ramalina conduplicans.
39655	Beck A., Bayer C., Debastiani R., Schubert T., Gröger A. & Ruthensteiner B. (2026): Elemental composition, structure and amount of contact between Xanthoria parietina symbionts. - Scientific Reports, 16: 27379 [9 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-68076-7. As prominent examples for symbiotic interactions, the major part of lichens is built up by two different organisms, a photosynthetically active alga (photobiont) and a heterotrophic fungus (mycobiont). Given the hydrophobic coating of lichen symbionts in the lichen thallus by hydrophobins, the area of direct cell cell contact is of prime importance for the transfer of nutrients and signalling compounds between the symbionts. Genomic analyses reported cell wall remodelling during symbiont interaction. However, no detailed investigation of lichen symbiont interaction zone is available so far. Using Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), we show that elemental composition of both symbiont cell walls differs when in contact to the symbiont as opposed to those cell wall areas without contact. Both, nitrogen and sulfur content of cell walls, differ significantly in areas of symbiont cell contacts as compared to non-contact zones. NanoCT imaging revealed that about one fourth of the photosymbiont cell wall is in contact to mycobiont hyphae, and fungal cells have a significantly increased volume if in contact to photobiont cells. We provide a sub µm 3D model of the lichen Xanthoria parietina using nanoCT imaging to foster understanding of the symbiont interaction zone.
39654	Gauslaa Y. (2026): Environmental, reproductive, and nutrient drivers of three-dimensional growth in the forest lichen Lobaria pulmonaria. - Oecologia, 208: 122 [13 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00442-026-05963-w. Measuring growth dynamics has been fundamental to understanding lichen biology and ecology. In this integrative analysis, I synthesize and reanalyze published data on three-dimensional growth in the foliose cephalolichen Lobaria pulmonaria transplanted in pristine North American forests, encompassing thallus area expansion, biomass accumulation, thallus thickening, and reproductive investment across multiple environmental gradients. Best subset regression selection and linear mixed models were applied to identify the principal internal and external factors influencing growth, specifically thallus area expansion and thickening, quantified as increases in specific thallus mass. The analyses reveal pronounced intrathalline growth heterogeneity, significant trade-offs between reproductive investment and growth, and the multifactorial influences of bark pH, elevation, light regime, and phosphorus availability. Light was often a limiting growth factor within forest interiors, whereas excessive stand openness caused chlorophyll bleaching and reduced growth. Initial phosphorus enrichment enhanced thallus thickness but did not consistently promote area or biomass expansion. Taken together, these finding highlight the habitat specialization of L. pulmonaria and the importance of bark pH, light, hydration, and reproductive investment in shaping growth dynamics. The study advances the understanding of growth strategies in L. pulmonaria and provides a foundation for predicting responses to environmental change and guiding conservation efforts. Keywords: Epiphytic lichens · Intercalary growth · Relative growth rate · Thallus thickening · Hydration regime · Nutrient limitation.
39653	Liu C. & Guo S. (2026): Optimal partitioning for molecular phylogenetic inference and generic delimitation in the cetrarioid core group (Parmeliaceae, Ascomycota). - Journal of Fungi, 12(9): 654 [23 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/jof1209065. The species diversity of lichenized fungi remains largely underestimated, yet the number of species in the cetrarioid core group of Parmeliaceae has remained stable while generic delimitations have been highly debated. Here, we performed a partitioned phylogenetic analysis incorporating secondary structure characters of three ribosomal loci (ITS, mtSSU, and nuLSU) combined with comprehensive phenotypic traits. Based on the results, we hypothesized that a Large Temporal Band (29.0–35.0 Mya) may serve as a baseline threshold for most generic divergences, corresponding to late-Oligocene global cooling and the primary cladogenesis of cetrarioid core lineages as documented in previous molecular dating studies. Additionally, we suggest a Small Temporal Band (14.0–18.0 Mya) for a subset of recently radiated genera that originated during the Mid-Miocene Climatic Optimum transition (~16 Mya). Two currently accepted genera (Cetraria and Nephromopsis) are largely supported in their current circumscriptions. Two new genera, Cetramelanelia and Tuckermanoides, are proposed to accommodate a clade of two species from Cetrariella and Tuckermanopsis platyphylla, respectively. Allocetraria is confirmed to resurrect as a genus separate from Cetraria, with Usnocetraria and Vulpicida treated as its synonyms. Foveolaria is reduced to synonymy with Nephromopsis. Ten new combinations and one new synonym at the species level are made. A dual-band temporal hypothesis for generic delimitation appears taxonomically reasonable for most macrolichens. Keywords: cetrarioid core group; generic delimitation; large temporal band; lichenized fungi; molecular phylogeny; new combination; new genus; partitioned analysis; secondary structure character; small temporal band.
39652	Moriyama T., Handa S., Sugiyama Y., Endo C., Tanaka C. & Isagi Y. (2026): Examples of diverse lichen-associated lifestyles of terrestrial algae Trentepohlia. - Symbiosis, 98: 215–228. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13199-025-01104-8. The present study reports for the first time that lichen thalli and ascomata may function as habitats for some trentepohliacean algae, including two new species described here, expanding the phylogenetic and ecological diversity in this algal lineage. Thorough sampling of Trentepohlia with various ecological traits was conducted at a single site, and the collected algae were morphologically and phylogenetically examined. Three species of Trentepohlia were revealed to inhabit lichens that are lichenized with other algae: Trentepohlia associata sp. nov., T. cryptica sp. nov., and T. umbrina. Trentepohlia associata sp. nov. was found invading the thalli of various foliose lichens, while T. cryptica sp. nov. was found exclusively inhabiting the hymenium of the ascomata of Lecanora chionocarpa. We considered these two algae to reproduce selectively on lichens since they formed zoosporangia growing on the hosts and were not found as free-living nor lichen-symbiotic algae. Trentepohlia umbrina, a cosmopolitan species previously regarded as a free-living alga and a lichen photobiont, was found as a lichen photobiont but also as an inhabitant of foliose lichens, ecologically connecting previously unlinked lichens. Based on our observations, where T. associata and T. umbrina –but not T. cryptica– often accompanied lichenicolous fungi, these two species may inhabit partly degraded parts of the host thalli, whereas T. cryptica may have an ability to invade the intact hymenium of the host lichen. Keywords: Lichen guilds · Lichen phycobiome · Parasitism · Photobiont plurality · Ulvophyceae.
39651	Sokolova I.V. & Stepanchikova I.S. (2026): Lectotypification of Parmelia pseudosaxatilis (Parmeliaceae). – In: Sokolova I.V. et al., Cryptogamic nomenclatural notes. 11. - Новости систематики низших растений [Novosti sistematiki nizshikh rastenii] / Novitates systematicae plantarum non vascularium, 60(2): N4–N5. https://doi.org/10.31111/nsnr/2026.60.2.N1. Parmelia pseudosaxatilis, when published, might be treated either as a replacement name or as the name of a new taxon. The typification carried out here (lectotype: W0347964) has established its status as a replacement name for P. marmariza var. physcioides. Keywords: lichen, lectotype, taxonomy, Parmelia.
39650	Gagarina L.V., Komarnitskaya N.A. & Zueva A.S. (2026): Lectotypification of Usnea intermedia (Parmeliaceae). – In: Sokolova I.V. et al., Cryptogamic nomenclatural notes. 11 . - Новости систематики низших растений [Novosti sistematiki nizshikh rastenii] / Novitates systematicae plantarum non vascularium, 60(2): N1–N4. https://doi.org/10.31111/nsnr/2026.60.2.N1. Usnea intermedia was described from Italy by A. Massalongo in 1856 as U. barbata var. intermedia. The lectotype designated here is stored in the herbarium LE, isolectotypes in BM, BOLO, DUB, FH, NY, TO, UPS. Usnea intermedia is most similar to U. florida distinguishing mainly by its chemistry and spore size. Keywords: lichen, lectotype, taxonomy, Usnea.
39649	Гудкова Е.П. & Мучник Е.Э. [Gudkova E.P. & Muchnik E.E.] (2026): Лихенобиота Приокско-Террасного государственного заповедника (Московская область, Россия)Lichen biota of the Prioksko-Terrasny state nature reserve (Moscow region, Russian federation) [Lichen biota of the Prioksko-Terrasny state nature reserve (Moscow region, Russian federation)]. - Вопросы лесной науки [Forest Science Issues], 9(2): 194 [39 p.]. DOI: 10.31509/2658-607x-202692-194. [in Russian with Englisg abstract: ] Relevance and Goal. The Prioksko-Terrasny State Nature Biosphere Reserve, with an area of 4945 ha, is in the Serpukhovsky District of the Moscow Region, in the southern part of the coniferous-broadleaved forest subzone. The lichen biota of the territory has been studied only partially until now. This work aims to update and expand the list of lichens and allied fungi in the State Reserve, as well as to conduct a brief analysis of the identified lichen biota. Material and methods. Available literary sources (beginning in 1906) were analyzed, and routing field excursions were conducted between 2023 and 2024. Materials were collected and studied using generally accepted lichenological techniques. A database is organized and maintained in MS Excel. Results and conclusion. An annotated checklist of the lichen biota of the Prioksko-Terrasny Nature Reserve has been compiled. It comprises 239 species (including 5 questionable ones) from 93 genera and 48 families of lichens and allied fungi. Of these, 90 species are new to the reserve, and 11 are new to the Moscow region, namely: Chaenothecopsis vainioana, Clypeococcum hypocenomycis, Lecanora campestris, L. compallens, L. expallens, Lecanoropsis sarcopidoides, Lecidella carpathica, Lichenoconium erodens, L. lecanorae, Lichenodiplis lecanorae, Psilolechia clavulifera. Eleven lichen species protected in the Moscow Region have been previously observed in the nature reserve, and our research revealed new locations for four species listed in the regional Red Book. The lichen biota of the nature reserve includes 20 species from the preliminary list of indicator species of biologically valuable forest communities in the subzone of coniferous-broadleaved forests. Ecological-substrate analysis showed that most lichens are epiphytic. Epigeic and epilithic species are less common. Among epiphytes the biggest species richness was observed on aspen and birch, and the greatest number of unique species were found on aspen, pine and bird cherry. The greatest diversity of lichens is noted for coniferous and coniferous-broadleaved forests, which are both more widespread communities and communities that are more diverse in the tree species composition. Keywords: lichens and allied fungi, biodiversity, indicator species, protected species, protected areas, Moscow Region.
39648	Potenza G., Breuss O., Gheza G., Di Nuzzo L., Puntillo D., Isocrono D., Fascetti S. & Rosati L. (2026): Siliceous outcrops host new records of biodiversity interest for arctic–alpine lichens in the southern Apennines: An assessment based on field surveys and herbarium data. - Diversity, 18(9): 521 [19 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/d18090521. The Calabrian–Lucanian Apennines are a lichenologically insufficiently explored area. The purpose of the study was to improve the knowledge of its lichen flora in the wider context of ecology and biogeography and with regard to conservation perspectives. Our study is primarily based on recent collections but also includes comparative analyses of previous herbarium samples to verify identity; in particular a direct comparison with the CLU Herbarium (Calabria University) HLUC (Basilicata University) together with data from national collections (ORO, TO TSB the Gheza Private Collection) and international collections (Lichen Herbarium Consortium) has provided a solid taxonomic framework. A total of 102 species have been identified. The area yields a remarkable diversity of the genus Umbilicaria with 17 taxa recorded. Placidium subrufescens is recorded for the first time in Italy seven species are new records in southern Italy and 13 in the Basilicata Region. The majority of rare and infrequent lichen species appear to be glacial relics at the southern limit of their range. These southern populations are highly fragmented and localized. They are vulnerable to environmental changes and likely to suffer from climate change. The habitats that were surveyed—mainly siliceous outcrops embedded within carbonatic sequences—supported the same arctic–alpine lichen biota. The study emphasizes the high degree of the region’s biodiversity and the necessity for conservation efforts. Keywords: biodiversity; glacial relics; herbarium data; Italy; lichen biota; rarity.
39647	de Jonge I.K., Huisman S.N., Convey P., Cornelissen J.H.C. & Bokhorst S. (2026): Functional traits help identify remote sensing blind spots in polar vegetation mapping. - Ecological Indicators, 189: 115107 [11 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolind.2026.115107. Accurate estimates of vegetation cover underpin ecological monitoring and conservation, yet lichens, the dominant primary producers across the coldest biomes remain poorly represented. Recent satellite-derived products provide Antarctic-wide estimates of vegetation cover, but detecting lichens remains challenging due to unique spectral characteristics, making it unclear where and how much lichen cover is missed. Interpreting and validating these products requires understanding of how lichens and their detectability vary across Antarctic landscapes. Here, we examine whether lichen growth form associates with topographic features to support accurate estimation of lichen cover and evaluation of remote sensing performance. Through intensive lichen surveys on East Lagoon Island (western Antarctic Peninsula), we quantified growth-form cover in 381 quadrats and fitted a spatial model with topographic predictors to estimate cover across the island. Crustose lichens were most abundant on flatter terrain, fruticose lichens dominated sloping surfaces at intermediate topographic wetness, and foliose lichens peaked at intermediate slope. The model showed consistent predictive performance (jackknife R2 = 0.38) and estimated that lichens cover 42.6% of the island's surface, partitioned into 16.2% crustose, 19.5% fruticose, and 6.9% foliose lichens. These values dwarf the 0.23% cover indicated by satellite-derived vegetation products. High-cover areas were dominated by fruticose lichens on sloping terrain, yet were absent from satellite-detected areas, indicating systematic underdetection linked to habitat and functional composition. Our results demonstrate that lichen cover is substantially underestimated in current vegetation products. By identifying overlooked lichen communities, our study provides a benchmark for diagnosing remote sensing blind spots and validating vegetation indicators in lichen-dominated environments. Keywords: Antarctic vegetation; Functional traits; Lichens; Remote sensing; Trait–environment relationships; Vegetation cover.
39646	Lawler C., Schmidt-Lebuhn A., Cargill D.C. & Gueidan C. (2025): Computer vision species identification of lichens and bryophytes from biocrusts in Australian drylands. - Applications in Plant Sciences, 13(6): e70029 [12 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1002/aps3.70029. Premise: Due to their small size and lack of easily visible macroscopic characters, the identification of cryptogam species has always been challenging. Here, the use of a machine learning computer vision method is explored for the identification of species of lichens and bryophytes from Australian biocrusts. Methods: Three models were trained using mostly images from herbarium specimens. The models were then evaluated based on statistics produced by Microsoft Azure Custom Vision and a bench-test with the CSIRO Horama ID mobile app. Results: Despite the small size and reduced habit of lichens and bryophytes, the Cryptogam (lichens and bryophytes) model performance value is just slightly lower than the performance of a vascular plant model of similar scope (64% accuracy for the Cryptogam model versus 70.3% for vascular plants from Costa Rica). Discussion: The performance of our models suggested opportunities for improvement, including for bias issues caused by imbalanced datasets, white background, and mixed specimens, as well as the difficulty in stabilizing live images at high magnification when using a mobile device to deploy the model. Further opportunities to improve model performance for these small and character-poor organisms, including data augmentation and image segmentation, are also discussed. Keywords: artificial intelligence, Australian rangelands, biological soil crusts, bryophytes, image classification, lichens, machine learning.
39645	Sharma A., Kumar A., Kuniyal J.C., Pandey A., Kesarwani K., Kumari T. & Srivastava V. (2026): Global evolution and emerging trends in lichenometry research: A bibliometric synthesis of potential role of lichenometry in climate and multidisciplinary science. - Quaternary International, 780: 110414 [14 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.quaint.2026.110414. Lichenometry is a critical tool for the reconstruction of environmental history and hazard assessment, particularly in mountainous regions. However, scientometrics insights into the evolution, thematic structure, and methodological practices of lichenometry research remain limited. The present study is the first integrated scientometrics synthesis of global lichenometry research, systematically analyzing 357 peer-reviewed documents retrieved from Scopus database. The research predominantly emphasizes glaciology, plant ecology, geomorphology, seismology, and hydrology. In glaciology, primary study is related to glacier retreat, paleoclimatology, debris flow activity, lichenometric dating of late Holocene moraines and glacial features, as well as the studies of the cryosphere dynamics and permafrost. Plant ecology research includes dendrochronology, lichen ecology, paleoclimatology, alpine climate change, and the analysis of tree growth rings to establish chronological timelines. Geomorphology research pertains to dating lava flows, inferring rockfall frequency and lichenometric dating of rock surfaces, surface dating, and aeolian soil erosion within higher Himalayan landslide zones. Hydrological studies address paleo-floods, paleohydrology, flood dynamics, and hydrometeorology, while seismology focuses on determining the ages of earthquakes and historical earthquake events. Topic modelling using Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA), identified dominant research themes and observed a recent transition from traditional dating applications towards climate and hazard-oriented research. By integrating content analysis with Mann-Kendall trend (MKT) test and Sen's slope and bibliometric approaches, this study provides a novel data driven framework. This framework will be useful for evaluating the development and future directions of lichenometry research. Keywords: Cryosphere science; Climate change; Geomorphology; Himalaya; Lichenometric dating; Paleoclimatology; Systematic review; Bibliometrics synthesis; Global assessment.
39644	Xu Y., Wang Y., Tong J., Huang R., Yuan H. & Lu J. (2027): From molecular to thermodynamic: An investigation of (+)-usnic acid solubility in pure and binary solvents via multiscale simulation and experiment. - Fluid Phase Equilibria, 612: 114832 [21 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fluid.2026.114832. The solubility of (+)-usnic acid ((+)-UA) in ten pure solvents and five binary mixed solvents was determined over the temperature range of 283.15–323.15 K. The experimental data for pure solvents were correlated using the modified Apelblat, λh, Wilson and NRTL models, while the General Solubility model (GSM) and the Jouyban-Acree (JA) model were additionally applied to binary solvent systems. The solubility of (+)-UA increased monotonically with temperature and the mass fraction of good solvent, and the Wilson model provided the most accurate overall correlation. The KAT-LSER model was then employed to evaluate solvent effects. The analysis showed that solvent-solvent cohesive energy density significantly hindered the dissolution process, while dipolarity/polarizability exerted only a moderate influence. Molecular simulations, including intramolecular hydrogen-bond analysis and molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) surfaces, were carried out to explore hydrogen-bond interactions among the enol-keto tautomers of (+)-UA. Strong intramolecular hydrogen bonding was found to favor compact conformations and to reduce solvent accessibility, whereas tautomers with more exposed polar regions exhibited enhanced solvation capability. Free-energy calculations further suggested that the dissolution behavior reflects a balance between intramolecular stabilization and solute-solvent interactions. In addition, thermodynamic analysis based on activity coefficients derived from the Wilson model indicated that both the mixing and dissolution processes were spontaneous and mainly driven by entropy. Keywords: (+)-Usnic acid; Solubility; Molecular simulation; Thermodynamic analysis.
39643	Aksak Ö.G., Bariş Ö. & Aslan A. (2026): Microcystis aeruginosa in lichen biofilms: Linking ecological plasticity to mineral transformation. - International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation, 215: 106441 [10 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ibiod.2026.106441. Lichens function as multi-kingdom biofilm systems that actively drive mineral transformation on stone substrates. In this study, eight lichen species collected from Eastern Anatolia (Türkiye) were analyzed to characterize their associated microbial communities and the underlying biochemical mechanisms of stone biodeterioration. From an initial pool of 185 microbial isolates, a representative subset of 55 taxa was molecularly identified, revealing a diverse consortium dominated by Bacillus, Pseudomonas, Fusarium, Aspergillus, and the cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa. The detection of M. aeruginosa, a microbe typically found in freshwater environments, within terrestrial lichen thalli demonstrates pronounced ecological plasticity and identifies lichens as transitional microhabitats between aquatic and lithic environments. The process of biodeterioration is driven by a combination of organic acid production and the presence of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), which together generate localized acidic microenvironments (pH values as low as 4.8). In particular, oxalic acid was found to mediate a stoichiometrically defined transformation of calcium carbonate according to the following reaction: Quantitative analysis via HPLC and ICP-MS confirmed a direct correlation between microbial acid titers and massive elemental mobilization (up to 19,958 ppm Ca). This mass-balanced pathway directly links microbial metabolism to mineral phase transformation and provides a mechanistic framework for understanding lichen-induced stone decay. The integration of microbial ecology with stoichiometric mineral transformation has advanced current understanding of biogeochemical weathering in cultural heritage materials. Keywords: Lichen-associated biofilms; Microbial biodeterioration; Microcystis aeruginosa; Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS); Oxalic acid; Stoichiometric mineral transformation.
39642	Jalolov I.Z., Turgunov K.K., Tashkhodzhaev B., Kurbanova M.T., Abdumamatov A.A., Terenteva E.O. & Aripova S.F. (2026): Secondary metabolites of the Xanthoria elegans lichen on the structure of usnic acid. - Journal of Structural Chemistry, 67: 1582–1587. https://doi.org/10.1134/S0022476626070140. [Original Russian text published in Zhurnal Strukturnoi Khimii, 2026, Vol. 67, No. 7, 169303] A number of secondary phenolic metabolites identified with previously characterized substances usnic acid (1), rhein (2), and chrysophanol (3) are isolated for the first time from the Xanthoria elegans lichen collected in the Namangan region of Uzbekistan (Pop district, Chadak village). The obtained usnic acid has a different melting point than that reported earlier in the literature; so the substance was studied by XRD. The difference from the known data is that the isolated usnic acid crystallizes in the P21/c space group, meaning that both (S) and (R)-enantiomers participate in the crystallization process. The presence of a migrating hydrogen atom established experimentally by the difference EP synthesis method and the analysis of valence bond lengths show that the usnic acid molecule can exist in the crystal in the form of two equilibrium keto and enol tautomers. An in vitro study on four cancer cell lines reveals that the extract of X. elegans exhibits slight cytotoxicity against the CCRF-CEM T-lymphoblastic leukemia cell line. Keywords: Xanthoria elegans, usnic acid, XRD, enantiomers, tautomers, intramolecular hydrogen bonds.
39641	Aksak O.G., Güçlü B., Gezgincioglu E., Bakan B., Dane H. & Uysal H. (2026): Congo Red removal and toxicity reduction by lichen endophytic fungi: A multi-trophic evaluation. - Biodegradation, 37: 121 [12 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10532-026-10347-1. The discharge of toxic, carcinogenic, and genotoxic dyes, such as Congo Red, commonly used in the food, textile, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries, into soil and water represents a major environmental problem that adversely affects ecosystems. Microbial treatment has emerged as a promising strategy for the removal of Congo Red from contaminated environments. In this study, Congo Red removal was evaluated using fungi isolated from lichens inhabiting rocks in extreme environments, and HPLC was used to assess changes in the chromatographic profile following fungal treatment. The toxic effects of untreated and fungal-treated Congo Red solutions were assessed using terrestrial (Triticum aestivum and Drosophila melanogaster), aquatic (Daphnia magna), and mammalian (L929 mouse fibroblast cell line) biological models. The highest Congo Red removal efficiencies were achieved with Aspergillus flavus, Cladosporium limoniforme, and Fusarium redolens. While untreated Congo Red exhibited pronounced toxic effects, the fungal-treated solutions showed markedly reduced acute toxicity under the tested experimental conditions. Similar results were obtained in the cell culture assays. This study demonstrates that lichen-associated fungi effectively removed Congo Red from the culture medium under the tested conditions, accompanied by a marked reduction in toxicity. However, the relative contributions of biotransformation and biosorption require further investigation. Keywords: Congo Red · Endophytic fungi · Toxicity assessment · Dye removal · Fungal transformation.
39640	Černajová I., Malavasi V., Dal Grande F. & Škaloud P. (2026): Decoding diversity: evaluation of metabarcoding pipelines using a Sanger-verified Cladonia natural community as reference. - Fungal Ecology, 83: 101539 [9 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.funeco.2026.101539. Metabarcoding of environmental DNA is widely used to assess fungal diversity, yet the choice of bioinformatic pipeline strongly influences results. Here we compare five pipelines to detect Cladonia diversity from soil eDNA across Europe, using an extensive floristic survey combined with Sanger sequencing as a reference. All pipelines similarly detected dominant species but differed in their recovery of rare taxa, hidden diversity, or putative artefacts. The total number of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) varied 2.5-fold across pipelines, and overlap with the reference dataset ranged from 21% to 40%. The pipeline by Bálint et al. (2014), followed by Swarm v2 clustering and VSEARCH chimera filtering, achieved the greatest agreement with the taxonomic survey and recovered the highest number of rare OTUs. The DADA2-based pipeline with DECIPHER clustering yielded the highest number of OTUs not found by the taxonomic survey. In contrast, LULU curation yielded the most conservative dataset, with the lowest diversity and lowest overlap with the Sanger-verified reference. Keywords: Biodiversity; Bioinformatic pipelines; Cladonia; eDNA; Metabarcoding; OTU validation; Sanger sequencing; Soil fungal diversity; Swarm clustering.
39639	Opekunova M.G., Nikulina A.R., Opekunov A.Y., Kukushkin S.Yu., Yanson S.Yu. & Prokhorova V. (2026): A case study of environmental biomonitoring in an urbanized Arctic area (Novy Urengoy Urban District). - Contemporary Problems of Ecology, 19: 532–547. https://doi.org/10.1134/S1995425526700198. [Original Russian text published in Sibirskii Ekologicheskii Zhurnal, 2026, No. 4, pp. 559–578.] Moss Sphagnum fuscum and lichen Cladonia stellaris bags were exposed for 8 weeks in the Novy Urengoy municipality, after which their chemical composition was studied. Electron microscopy revealed the presence of rock-forming mineral inclusions and heterogeneous solid inclusions of various origins in the samples, including the ore minerals pyrite, sphalerite, galena, argentite, atacamite, cobaltite, ilmenite, and rutile (anatase); barite; native iron; fine particles of antimony, mercury, silver, and gold; Fe–Cr–Mn, Fe–Mn, Fe–Cr, Fe–Ti–Mn, Ti–Fe, and Ni–Cr–Fe alloys; Cu–Zn, Cu–Ni, Cu–Ni–Zn–Mn, Cu–Hg, Cu–Sb, and Cu–Sn; titanium plates; and microplastics. The western part of the municipality is characterized by low pollution levels, while in the eastern part, Cu, Ni, and Zn emissions from Norilsk enterprises are recorded. In the southern part of the city, pollution of Ca, Cr, Fe, Cd, Mg, Mn, Pb, V, and Zn were detected; in the north, emissions of Ba, Ca, Cd, Cr, Mg, Mn, Ni, and Sr were noted. Trends in metal accumulation by bags and epigeic lichens in various functional zones of the city are similar; however, bags had better accumulate elements that are poorly absorbed by plants during passive biomonitoring (K, Ca, Na, Ba, Cd, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sr, and Zn). The bioindication integral parameter BIP based on the Harrington desirability function confirmed the low level of pollutant input and the leading role of transport, as well as locally the airport and railways, in polluting the urban environment. The use of active biomonitoring methods in Arctic cities is recommended. The combined use of several transplant species is preferable, as Sphagnum fuscum better accumulates Ca, Cd, Cu, K, Mg, Mn, Sr, and Zn, while Cladonia stellaris accumulates Ba, Cr, Na, Ni, and Pb. The use of contamination factors is indicative for comparing pollutant accumulation by different species. Keywords: pollution, moss bags, lichen bags, metals, bioindication integral parameter.
39638	Pijcke F., Seitz J., Stark S., Alriksson A., Metcalfe D.B., Rautio P., Sparrman T., Virtanen R. & Olofsson J. (2026): Long-term reindeer exclusion leads to higher carbon storage and less recalcitrant carbon compounds in boreal forest soils. - Ecosystems, 29: 76 [17 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10021-026-01100-z. Dry and unproductive Scots pine forests in the northern boreal forest zone provide conditions where ground-dwelling lichens can thrive. These lichens are a crucial winter forage for reindeer. Reindeer reduce lichen biomass both by consumption and trampling, leading to cascading effects on microclimate, litter inputs, and soil carbon dynamics. To investigate long-term impacts of reindeer exclusion, we assessed the plant biomass, soil nutrients, and soil organic carbon (SOC) quantity and quality in three dry pine forest sites in northern Finland, where reindeer have been excluded for over 50 years. Within exclosures, lichen biomass was 4.5 times higher and dwarf shrub biomass nearly doubled compared to grazed controls. These vegetation changes were associated with a 33% higher soil moisture and 0.8 °C lower summer soil temperatures at 10 cm depth beneath the thicker lichen mats. The organic layer SOC stock was 28% higher in exclosures. Spectroscopic analysis using 13C NMR spectroscopy revealed 9.5% higher O-alkyl carbon (carbohydrates) content and lower methoxy (−5.1%), alkyl (−6.9%), and carbonyl (−8.7%) content, reflecting a younger, more labile carbon pool in the exclosures. Despite these changes, soil nutrient concentrations and C:N ratios remained unchanged between treatments, suggesting that altered SOC storage and composition result primarily from increased litter inputs and microclimatic changes. We conclude that in lichen-rich boreal forests, long-term reindeer exclusion enhances SOC stocks and promotes a shift toward more decomposable soil organic matter, with potential implications for carbon stability under changing grazing regimes. Key words: Reindeer; soil organic carbon; 13C NMR spectroscopy; boreal forest; lichen; grazing.
39637	Paponova E.V., Buchina Y.S. & Aronova E.B. (2026): Biopharmaceutical potential of lichens. - Biologicy Bulletin Reviews, 16: 717–725. https://doi.org/10.1134/S2079086425601620. [Original Russian text published in Uspekhi Sovremennoi Biologii, 2026, Vol. 146, No. 1, pp. 43–55] This review summarizes current scientific data on the molecular mechanisms of action of lichen compounds: depsidones, depsidiones, anthraquinones, and dibenzofurans. The antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic effects identified in experimental models in vitro and partially confirmed in vivo are analyzed. The efficacy, environmental friendliness, and limitations of current methods for extracting biologically active compounds from lichens are assessed: ultrasound (UAE), microwave (MAE), supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), and enzymatic extraction (EAE). Prospects for the development of pharmaceuticals, topical antimicrobial agents based on usnic acid, and dietary supplements with antioxidant properties are discussed. Particular attention is paid to critical barriers: ensuring a sustainable raw material base, the economic aspects of lichen biomass production, methods for purifying total biomass, the need for strict standardization of extracts, and the requirements for a comprehensive toxicological safety assessment in accordance with international regulatory standards. Keywords: lichens, secondary metabolites, biological activity, standardization, immunomodulators, toxicological safety.
39636	Liu J., Zhao X., Deng M., Zhang F., Wu Q., Liu R., Long M. & Li X. (2026): Species composition and community assembly characteristics of biological soil crusts in degraded karst ecosystems of Guizhou, China. - Plant Biosystems, 160: 249 [23 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1007/s44473-026-00257-8. Biocrusts are widely distributed in global drylands; however, their species composition and community assembly remain poorly understood within degraded karst ecosystems under subtropical humid climates. This study investigated six typical areas representing a degradation gradient in Guizhou (South China Karst), elucidating biocrust distribution patterns through comprehensive comparisons with global dryland literature. Results revealed a total of 22 unique biocrust species distributed across four major phyla: 12 moss species (phylum Bryophyta; 6 families, 9 genera), 2 lichen species (phylum Ascomycota; 2 families, 2 genera), and 8 algal/cyanobacterial species (6 families, 7 genera), which were heavily dominated by cyanobacteria (6 cyanobacterial species vs. 2 green algal species). Mosses formed the absolute dominant crust type, contributing to 75%–100% of the total surface coverage. Within moss communities, Hyophila rosea emerged as the ubiquitous absolute dominant species persisting across the entire degradation gradient, alongside extremotolerant co-dominants like Brachymenium exile and Trichostomum brachydontium. Conversely, cosmopolitan species such as Bryum argenteum acted as gap-filling associated taxa. Ecologically, biocrusts exhibited pronounced habitat preferences, being enriched in managed groves (e.g., Zanthoxylum bungeanum, Camellia oleifera) rather than croplands or natural grasslands. Network analysis confirmed that taxonomic overlap between degraded karst biocrusts and global drylands is extremely low (
39635	Groso A., Jabet P., Fan Y., Hua W., Yawen H., Miao G., Daniellou R. & Collet G. (2026): In vitro anti-aging properties of a Cetraria islandica extract: Interest for skin care cosmetics. - Molecules, 31(17): 2988 [14 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31172988. Skin aging is a major consideration regarding cosmetic skin care. The cosmetic field is seeking new active ingredients able to slow down the appearance of signs of age. Some lichens and more specifically the genus Cetraria s. str. presents an interest as a source of active molecules because it is already being used in traditional and modern medicines. To better evaluate the potential of C. islandica as anti-aging skin care, we investigated some key aspects to protect skin from external aggression and to avoid skin alteration, which would exacerbate signs of age. Among them, our results reveal (i) antioxidant capacities; (ii) anti-inflammatory properties on human keratinocytes once stimulated, as shown by a decrease in IL-6, IL-8, CXCL9, CXCL10, and CCL5; (iii) a downregulation of MT1-MMP, which corresponds to decreased tissue remodeling; and (iv) an inhibition of human tyrosinase, which could correct the appearance over time of age-related skin spots. Altogether, these results highlight the potential use of C. islandica in anti-aging skin care. Keywords: Cetraria islandica hydroglycolic extract; skin aging; antioxidant; anti-inflammatory; dermal matrix remodeling; tyrosinase.
39634	Kosecka M., Bourceret A., Perez-Lamarque B., Guzow-Krzemińska B., Kukwa M., Flakus A., Rodriguez-Flakus P. & Selosse M.-A. (2026): Factors shaping the lichen photobiome and mycobiome in a tropical lichen community. - FEMS Microbiology Ecology, 102(9): fiag094 [20 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1093/femsec/fiag094. Lichen thalli host complex microbial communities, defined as a holobiont, which may foster the ecological stability and longevity of the lichen symbiosis. Currently, the understanding of the lichen features that structure the diversity of lichen holobionts in complex lichen communities in natural ecosystems remains incomplete. This study assessed the microbial community diversity and structure in taxonomically diverse co-occurring lichens associated with Trebouxiophyceae algae from Bolivian forests. We focused on three components of the lichen holobiont: the lichenized fungus (mycobiont), its associated algal (photobiome), and fungal (mycobiome) communities. We specifically tested the influence of mycobiont identity, lichen thallus morphological type, reproductive strategy, and secondary metabolites composition on the lichen-associated photobiome and mycobiome. To understand the specialization patterns between holobiont components, we investigated biotic interactions between the mycobiont and the lichen-associated photobiome and mycobiome using network analysis. We observed that co-occurring lichens host diverse, host-specific, yet overlapping photobiomes and mycobiomes. In particular, these microbial communities are influenced by the host’s thallus morphological type and its secondary metabolite content. Finally, we demonstrated that both photobiome and mycobiome are shaped mainly by the mycobiont identity, which results in modular interaction networks, with strong phylogenetic signals and high levels of specialization. Key Words: lichen symbiosis, holobiont, Trebouxia lichen, epiphytic lichens.
39633	Caboň M., Slovák M., Svitok M., Steinová J., Fačkovcová Z., Gužiková J., Kučera J. Paoli L., Větrovský T., Hindáková A., Senko D., Zozomová-Lihová J., Melichárková A., Gajdošová Z. & Guttová A. (2026): Ultramafic specialist lichens persist through flexible symbioses structured by climate-driven filtering and modulated by substrate effects. - IMA Fungus, 17: e199447 [30 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3897/imafungus.17.199447. Ultramafic substrates impose severe edaphic stress characterised by metal toxicity, nutrient imbalance, and extreme microclimatic conditions, creating spatially fragmented habitats that can shape evolutionary and ecological dynamics of associated organisms. Together with climatic variation, such factors may also influence the structure of holobiont communities of lichenized fungi. Here we investigated the ultramafic specialist lichen Solenopsora liparina across its entire range. We contextualized its symbiotic associations using calcicolous congeners (S. candicans and S. cesatii), as ecological reference taxa representing contrasting substrate-associated lineages within the sampled dataset, to assess how climatic filtering acting within a specialised edaphic niche structures symbiotic partner diversity and composition. Photobionts and endolichenic fungi displayed climate-associated compositional turnover and lineage-level diversity. Variation in the composition of these symbionts was most strongly associated with precipitation during the warmest quarter and, in photobionts, with altitude and temperature seasonality. In photobionts, dominant lineages differed in their relative occurrence among host taxa, whereas low-abundance lineages were broadly shared across samples within the dataset. Despite this turnover, alpha diversity remained generally stable across environmental gradients, indicating that climatic variation most strongly affects community composition rather than within-sample diversity. The results are consistent with a model of mixed host- and substrate- associated symbiont assembly, in which dominant photobiont lineages exhibit host- or substrate-linked preferences, whereas low-abundance associates show weaker specificity and broader ecological overlap across environmental and host contexts. Overall, the findings indicate that climatic factors structure the composition of symbiotic partners without strongly altering their overall diversity, while variation among host taxa is reflected in lineage turnover of dominant symbionts. The persistence of the ultramafic specialist lichen S. liparina thus appears to rely on flexible, compositionally dynamic symbiotic associations shaped by climatic variation within a spatially and edaphically constrained niche, rather than obligate partner specificity. Substrate effects are interpreted here as host-associated lineage patterns rather than independently quantified drivers. More broadly, the results suggest that climatic variation can in some cases strongly influence symbiotic assembly within environmentally extreme and spatially heterogeneous systems. Substrate specialisation provides the ecological context in which such interactions occur. Together, the findings highlight the importance of climatic variation in shaping symbiotic assembly within an edaphically specialised system, emphasizing that patterns associated with host and substrate context are expressed mainly through lineage turnover rather than wholesale community replacement. Key words: Endolichenic fungi, holobiont, lichen, metabarcoding, Symbiochloris, ultramafites.
39632	Maurya A.K., Upreti D.K. & Mishra G.R. (2026): Japewia indica sp. nov. (Lecanoraceae), a new lichen from Western Himalaya, India, along with an updated world key to the species. - Lindbergia, 2026(1): e028690 [5 p.]. https://doi.org/10.25227/linbg.028690. A new species of lichen, Japewia indica sp. nov., is described from temperate forests of Munsiyari, Uttarakhand, India. The new taxon is characterised by a thin, yellowish-green thallus with blastidia, sessile black apothecia, and broadly ellipsoid to globose, multilayered ascospores. The species is morphologically related to Japewia subaurifera due to the size of its ascospores. Detailed morphological, anatomical and chemical analyses confirm its novelty. Comparisons with all four previously known Japewia species are provided. A worldwide key to the genus is provided to facilitate accurate identification. The genus is first generic record for Indian lichen biota. Keywords: Ascomycota, epiphytic lichen, India, lichenized fungi, temperate forest.
39631	Konečná E., Steinová J., Černajová I. & Grewe F. (2026): Unravelling the secret of phantom phenotypes in macrolichens: insights from Cladonia bellidiflora complex. - Molecular Ecology, 35(16): e70515 [20 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1111/mec.70515. Lichens are unique among symbiotic organisms because their distinctive features develop only through interactions between the partners and differ from the appearance of each partner when grown separately in culture. Traditionally, lichen phenotype has been assumed to be determined by the mycobiont; however, exceptions exist that challenge the universal validity of this rule. One example is the phenomenon of ‘phantom phenotypes’, where lichens with genetically indistinguishable mycobionts exhibit distinct morphologies, sometimes better explained by differences among other symbiotic partners. In previous work, we documented such a case in the Cladonia bellidiflora complex, a group of red‐fruited macrolichens with striking morphological and ecological variation, in which photobiont identity corresponded more closely to phenotype than the mycobiont when studied using five molecular markers. Here, we investigate this phenomenon using restriction‐site associated DNA sequencing (RADseq) of both fungal and algal symbionts, combined with Sanger sequencing of ITS rDNA and the actin locus of the photobiont. Our results indicate that recent fungal divergence, together with correlated photobiont differentiation, is associated with the observed phenotypic differentiation, highlighting the importance of sensitive methods in similar cases. Specifically, RADseq analyses revealed a clear split between C. bellidiflora and all sorediate taxa, including C. polydactyla and C. umbricola, which showed no genomic differentiation, supporting their recognition as a single species. Additionally, substrate preference, symbiont associations and dispersal strategy appear to have acted in parallel to shape diversification in this complex. Photobiont data revealed unexpected patterns: esorediate C. bellidiflora associated with narrow photobiont sets, whereas sorediate lineages harboured a broader photobiont pool. Keywords: Asterochloris | diversification | mycobiont | photobiont | phylogenomics | RAD sequencing.
39630	Knudsen K., Pušová T., Kocourková J. & Kondrysová E. (2026): Two new species of Myriospora (Lecanoromycetes, Acarosporomycetidae, Acarosporales, Acarosporaceae) from Europe, one last observed in 1925. - MycoKeys, 139: 73-87. https://doi.org/10.3897/mycokeys.139.200273. We describe Myriospora hilitzeri from the Czech Republic, Germany and Italy. It is named after the Czech lichenologist and science fiction writer Alfred C. Hilitzer (1899–1940). The species Acarospora smaragdula form macrophylla was described by Magnusson from a single collection by A. C. Hilitzer from the summit of Keprník Mountain in Jeseníky Mountains of the Czech Republic on some gneiss rocks in 1925. It has never been col- lected again and is possibly extinct. It is raised to the species level in this paper as Myriospora macrophylla. A world-wide key of the 15 species of Myriospora is supplied. Key words: Acarospora, β-tubulin, iron-rich limestone, Myriospora hassei, M. smaragdula, extinct lichens, rare lichens, whewellite.
39629	Zhurbenko M.P. (2026): Contributions to the knowledge of Lichenochora species (Phyllachorales, Ascomycota) growing on Teloschistaceae lichens, with descriptions of L. cerinae and L. uralensis spp. nov.. - Phytotaxa, 770(4): 252–260. https://doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.770.4.2. Two lichenicolous fungi, Lichenochora cerinae (on Caloplaca cerina) and L. uralensis (on Blastenia ammiospila and Bryoplaca sinapisperma), are described as new to science from Eurasia. The host range of Lichenochora caloplacae is revised. A comparison of Lichenochora species occurring on Teloschistaceae hosts, based on ascospore dimensions and proportions, is provided. Key words: caloplacoid lichens, Germany, Italy, lichenicolous fungi, russia, Svalbard, taxonomy.
39628	Wang Z., Wang N., Zhang H., Qian B., Wang D. & Wang Y. (2026): Establishment of an efficient CRISPR-Cas9-mediated gene disruption system in the lichen-forming fungus Umbilicaria muhlenbergii. - Journal of Fungi, 12(8): 622 [17 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/jof12080622. Lichen-forming fungi establish intimate symbiotic associations with photosynthetic partners and play important roles in diverse ecosystems, but functional genetic studies in these organisms remain limited by the lack of efficient genome-editing tools. In this study, we established an efficient CRISPR-Cas9-mediated gene disruption system in Umbilicaria muhlenbergii. Using this system, we achieved the targeted disruption of six candidate transcription factors with a high replacement efficiency of up to 65.0%. No off-target mutations were detected in any of the three independent mutants examined for each target gene. Preliminary phenotypic characterization of the resulting mutants revealed that disruption of UmSOM1 markedly impaired fungal growth, induced pseudohyphal development, and altered colony morphology and pigmentation. Compared with conventional homologous recombination, the CRISPR-Cas9 system substantially improved gene disruption efficiency, thereby overcoming a major limitation in the genetic manipulation of lichen-forming fungi. This system provides a robust platform for functional genomic studies and will accelerate investigations into the molecular mechanisms underlying fungal–algal symbiosis and morphological transitions in lichen-forming fungi. Keywords: CRISPR-Cas9; gene disruption; lichen; UmSOM1; morphological transition; pseudohyphae.
39627	Furmanek Ł., Bakier S., Czarnota P., Kapusta I., Pawłowicz T., Seaward M.R.D., Borowik P. & Oszako T. (2026): Antifungal and profungal potentials of acetone-extracted complexes of lichen substances on macromycete Heterobasidion parviporum mycelium growth dynamics—The first in vitro approach. - Molecules, 31(16): 2882 [35 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31162882. This study provides the first experimental evidence on how acetone-extracted lichen substances affect the mycelial growth of the pathogenic basidiomycete Heterobasidion parviporum. Six lichen species were tested: the terricolous species Cladonia arbuscula, C. digitata, C. rangiferina, C. uncialis and Cetraria islandica, and the epiphytic species Pseudevernia furfuracea. Extracts were prepared from single species and from species mixtures, including C. arbuscula + C. rangiferina + C. digitata and all five terricolous species. The substantial economic losses caused by the tested pathogen in forestry provided the rationale for these experiments. Two supplementation methods were used: applying extracts (1–4 mL) to solidified agar and incorporating extracts into the medium before solidification. The effects varied by extract, dose and supplementation method, showing either inhibitory or stimulatory potential. Surface application generally caused stronger inhibition than incorporation into the liquid medium, in which growth stimulation occurred, especially with extracts of C. rangiferina, C. digitata and Cetraria islandica. Fungistatic effects were associated mainly with usnic acid and, synergistically, with physodic acid, chloroatranorin and atranorin. The results highlight lichen extract complexes as promising eco-friendly biocontrol agents against H. parviporum in forest nurseries and spruce stands, with possible ecological implications. Keywords: chemical hormesis; lichen metabolites; pathogenic fungus; inhibition; usnic acid.
39626	Malíček J. & Ludvíková J. (2026): Does Parmelia omphalodes s. str. occur in the Czech Republic?. - Bryonora, 77: 1−13. . The identification of taxa within the Parmelia omphalodes group is relatively difficult, and their distribution has therefore remained poorly understood in the Czech Republic. We revised herbarium material from the main Czech and Slovak herbaria using morphological characters, thin-layer chromatography, and DNA barcoding based on the ITS region for selected specimens. We identified 129 specimens of Parmelia pinnatifida and 24 ones of P. discordans from the Czech Republic. The occurrence of P. omphalodes s. str. was not confirmed in the country. Parmelia pinnatifida occurs mainly on siliceous rocks in humid, often partly shaded, and more or less relict habitats especially in submontane and montane areas. Parmelia discordans was confirmed as a rare species, with most records concentrated on boulder screes and rocky sites in the Brdy Highlands. Key words: biodiversity, DNA barcoding, herbarium specimens, saxicolous lichens, secondary metabolites, taxonomy.
39625	Fryday A. & in Arcadia L. (2026): (3169) Proposal to conserve the name Lichen lapicida (Lecidea lapicida) (lichenized Ascomycota, Lecideales: Lecideaceae) with a conserved type. - Taxon, 75(4): e70209 [1 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1002/tax.70209.
39624	Lustosa B.P.R., Belmonte-Lopes R., de Hoog S., Costa F.F., Jacomel B., dos Santos G.D., Razzolini E., Li Y., Xue R., Baura V.A., Souza E.M., Gomes R.R., Ahmed S.A., Selbmann L., Song Y. & Vicente V.A. (2025): Genomics and ecology of Epibryaceae, a psychrophilic family in Chaetothyriales. - IMA Fungus, 16: e170120 [22 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3897/imafungus.16.170120. The family Epibryaceae is one of the early-diverging lineages within the order Chaetothyriales. Available molecular data show that most species are associated with mosses, liverworts, and lichens, typically inhabiting apparently psychrophilic environments. However, genomic information about this family remains scarce. This study presents whole-genome sequencing of six reference strains from the genus Epibryon (Chaetothyriales, Epibryaceae), aiming to elucidate their ecological adaptations and evolutionary relationships. Comparative analyses of CAZymes and MEROPS annotations showed that most members of Epibryaceae have a reduced set of enzymes associated with lignin degradation. Additionally, the presence of the CspA protein, linked to freezing tolerance, and the absence of the ClpA/B enzyme, associated with heat stress tolerance, suggest a strong preference for cold environments compared with other Chaetothyriales lineages. Multilocus phylogenetic analyses clarified species boundaries and resulted in the introduction of Epibryon brunneolum comb. nov. within the family. Based on phylogenetic analysis, ecological data regarding the preferred habitat of the family, and the presence of exclusive enzymes associated with extreme cold environments, the results indicate that this family is distinct from other chaetothyrialean fungi. Key words: Black yeast, comparative genomics, Epibryon, extremotolerant fungi, gene expansion and contraction.
39623	Jiang S.-H., Yao Z.-T., Xue X.-D., Cáceres M.E.S., Aptroot A., Wei J.-C., Jia Z.-F. & Lücking R. (2026): Sixteen new species of Mazosia (Ascomycota, Roccellaceae) from China revealed by molecular and morphological evidence. - IMA Fungus, 17: e200357 [44 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3897/imafungus.17.200357. Mazosia is one of the most commonly encountered foliicolous genera, regularly present with high species richness in closed rainforest understory communities throughout the tropics. This first comprehensive multi-locus (ITS-nuLSU-mtSSU) phylogenetic analysis indicates a high level of previously unrecognized diversity, with a 50% increase in lineages recognized in this genus. On the basis of combined molecular and phenotypic data, sixteen new species of Mazosia from China are described: Mazosia centrica sp. nov., M. dimorphoverrucosa sp. nov., M. gelatinospora sp. nov., M. intermedia sp. nov., M. papillosa sp. nov., M. pruinata sp. nov., M. pseudoaptrootii sp. nov., M. pseudocorticola sp. nov., M. pseudomelanophthalma sp. nov., M. pseudopapillosa sp. nov., M. pseudopilosa sp. nov., M. pseudopruinata sp. nov., M. pseudotenuissima sp. nov., M. sinensis sp. nov., M. straminea sp. nov., and M. verrucosa sp. nov. A new, world-wide key to the known species of Mazosia is presented. Key words: Diversity, foliicolous lichens, Mazosia, multi-locus phylogeny, new taxa.
39622	Freire-Rallo S., Tuovinen Nogerius V., Wedin M. & Millanes A.M. (2026): Living in each other’s pockets: insights into the life cycle of Tremella caloplacae s. l.. - IMA Fungus, 17: e157916 [25 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3897/imafungus.17.157916. Complex life-cycles are common among fungi. Dimorphism in basidiomycetes involves alternation between a unicellular yeast phase and a filamentous phase, frequently forming basidiomata. Here we have studied the dimorphic life cycle of the lichen-inhabiting basidiomycetes in the Tremella caloplacae species complex, with particular focus on the newly distinguished Tremella parietinae. Using FISH-CLSM, PCR and Sanger sequencing, we have investigated the presence and distribution of the different life-cycle phases of T. parietinae within the lichen Xanthoria parietina, and also conducted an exploratory investigation into the presence of a Tremella yeast phase in other lichens of the Teloschistaceae. We could show that the filamentous phase of T. parietinae is restricted to the hymenium of X. parietina, whereas the yeast phase also grows elsewhere in the thallus. Tremella caloplacae s. str. is detected by PCR in Calogaya, Flavoplaca and Gyalolechia lichens, whereas its basidiomata are restricted to Variospora lichens. These findings suggests different lichen-specificity of T. caloplacae in the different phases of its life-cycle. Key words: Basidiomycete, confocal laser scanning microscopy, fluorescent in situ hybridization, yeast.
39621	González-Fuente I. & Ariño A.H. (2026): Fitness for purpose of reactive nitrogen monitoring methods in ecosystems: A multi-faceted comparative assessment. - Environments, 13(8): 452 [27 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/environments13080452. Anthropogenic reactive nitrogen (Nr) production now greatly exceeds natural creation, generating cascading environmental impacts on the environment and human health. Effective monitoring of Nr in ecosystems is essential for early warning and policy response, yet the landscape of available monitoring methods is wide and heterogeneous, varying substantially in accuracy, purpose, cost, and ecological scope. This study evaluates nineteen Nr-monitoring methods, grouped into chemistry-based (CM), biodiversity-based (BM), and transplant-based (TM) methods, against 36 fitness-for-purpose (FFP) indicator facets. Facets are organized into intrinsic (direct measurement of nitrogen cycle components), projected (ecological effects the method can indicate), and extrinsic (metaproperties such as cost or precision) types. Scores are derived from 89 core papers, ranked using evidence-normalized weighted-sums (WS) and non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) approaches. CMs generally outperform BMs and TMs, with critical loads, total tissue nitrogen, and nitrogen isotopes leading overall. Lichen diversity, ectomycorrhizal fungi, and Ellenberg’s N lead among BMs, particularly for projected facets. The NMDS reveals a structural divide and monitoring complementarity between CMs and BMs, with CMs serving as early warning indicators, whereas BMs integrate cumulative, persistent ecosystem impacts. While no single method seems adequate for comprehensive monitoring, the FFP matrix facilitates selecting optimal monitoring combinations. Keywords: reactive nitrogen; monitoring; biomonitoring; methodologies; fitness-for-purpose.
39620	Spielmann A.A., Marcelli M.P., Canêz L.S. & Benatti M.N. (2026): Parmotrema (Parmeliaceae, lichenized Ascomycota) with alectoronic acid: two new species, a checklist and a preliminary worldwide key. - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(1): 250–269. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0019. A preliminary study of the Parmotrema species with alectoronic acid revealed a list of 63 such species worldwide. Two of these are newly described here, Parmotrema columnatum, with inflated apothecial stipes, and Parmotrema marginatihiatum, with abundant lobules, both from Brazil. A checklist with the main literature for each species and a working key are presented together with some illustrations of types or fresh collections, mainly from Brazil. Key words: Brazil, lichens, Parmelia, UV test.
39619	Kalb K., Schumm F., Moncada B. & Lücking R. (2026): Malmidea aptrootiana (Malmideaceae), a new large-spored species in the Malmidea granifera complex. - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(1): 242–249. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0018. The new species Malmidea aptrootiana is described from the Dominican Republic. It forms part of the M. granifera complex in having a verrucose thallus (medulla whitish, K+ yellow) and apothecia with a dark hypothecium and with an excipulum containing a medullary layer. Within this complex, the new taxon stands out by its comparatively large ascospores (19–27 × 10–12 μm). Only three species in this complex have larger ascospores: M. indica and M. subindica (28–40 × 12–24 μm), both described from India, and M. sorsogona (22–34 × 11–16 μm), described from the Philippines. The latter overlaps in ascospore size with the new species, but features a yellowish medulla in the verrucae and further differs in the 4-spored asci and apothecia with brownish black disc and thick, mostly entire margins (disc purplish dark brown with the margins becoming thin and crenulate in the new species). Three other species in which the ascospores can reach lengths over 20 μm are M. chrysostigma, M. fenicis, and M. verrucosa, all from the eastern Paleotropics. The first two differ in the yellow, K+ red(-violet) medulla of the verrucae, whereas M. verrucosa features 4-spored asci and apothecia with a blackish brown disc and entire, dark margins. In order to facilitate the distinction of these and other species in this group, we provide an updated world key with illustrated diagnostic features for the species of the M. granifera complex. While elaborating the key, we came across Megalospora simplex Vězda, a foliicolous lichen described from Tanzania, which turned out to belong in Malmidea, so we also propose the new combination Malmidea simplex here. Key words: Brazil, chemistry, India, Thailand.
39618	Will-Wolf S., Umaña-Tenorio L., Chaves J.L., Nelsen M.P., Sipman H.J.M. & Lücking R. (2026): Gymnographopsis aptrootiana (Graphidales), a new addition to a poorly known genus with unique morphological features. - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(1): 232–241. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0017. The new species Gymnographopsis aptrootiana is described from tree bark in rain forests of Costa Rica and Guyana. It is placed in Gymnographopsis based on the combination of a partially ecorticate thallus, lirellate ascomata with partly exposed disc, and small, non-amyloid (I–), septate ascospores. Overall, it is most similar to G. koreaiensis, but differs in the 1-septate ascospores and the formation of disc-shaped schizidia, as well as its unusual chemistry with three unidentified compounds. We provide a modern overview of the genus Gymnographopsis, a key to the five currently accepted species, and a discussion of its position in Graphidaceae s.lat. We dedicate this work to our long-standing colleague, friend, and collaborator in the TICOLICHEN project, André Aptroot, for his invaluable contributions to tropical lichenology, on the occasion of his 65th birthday. Key words: Heiomasia, Redonographa, Redonographoideae, Stegobolus, TLC.
39617	Weerakoon C., Wolseley P., Vairappan C., Thüs H. & Lücking R. (2026): Graphidaceae from Sabah (NE Borneo), including eight new species. - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(1): 205–222. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0015. Graphidaceae is one of the largest families of lichenized fungi, with over 2,300 species in 80 genera known and about 3,600 species predicted. The Eastern Paleotropics constitute one of the hotspots of Graphidaceae diversity, including many potentially unknown species awaiting discovery. The Malaysian state of Sabah in NE-Borneo is home to some of the oldest continuously forested areas in SE-Asia, but only a few recent studies sampled Graphidaceae, particularly in the remaining pockets of lowland Dipterocarp forests. As part of two larger field trips in 2012 and 2013, hundreds of specimens of mostly epiphytic Graphidaceae were collected. The identification of 115 collections thus far has resulted in 52 species, all of which represent new records for this region, including eight species new to science in eight different genera (Allographa, Astrochapsa, Byssotrema, Diorygma, Melanotrema, Ocellularia, Platythecium, Sarcographa), as well as new records for the Eastern Paleotropics, Malaysia, and Borneo. Most of the new species were found in old growth forests, and very few in selectively logged forests, highlighting the importance of effective conservation by strict protection of the remnants of unlogged stands for the highly threatened lowland Dipterocarp forests in SE-Asia. Key words: Acanthothecis, Heiomasia, muriform.
39616	Miranda-González R., Lücking R., Herrera-Campos M.A. & Campos-Cerda F. (2026): Alloarthopyrenia aptrootiana sp. nov. (Trypetheliaceae), the second recognized species in the genus and the first tropical member of Alloarthopyrenia, with a revised taxonomic concept for Arthopyrenia cinereopruinosa. - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(1): 192–204. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0014. We describe the new species Alloarthopyrenia aptrootiana from western Mexico, representing the second known species in the genus and its first tropical member. The new species is characterized by its narrow, 1-septate ascospores of 17–21 × 6–7.5 μm, with additional strong constrictions in the middle of each cell. We present a phylogeny of Trypetheliaceae that confirms the position of the new species in the genus. We propose the new combination Naetrocymbe cinereopruinosa to accommodate the historically misapplied Arthopyrenia cinereopruinosa based on its type collection and confirm Alloarthopyrenia italica as a different and valid species. Based on our phylogenetic analysis, we also propose the new combination Pseudobogoriella confusa to accommodate a species previously known in the genus Mycomicrothelia. Key words: Arthopyrenia, Chamela-Cuixmala Biosphere Reserve, lichens, Mexico, Naetrocymbe cinereopruinosa, phylogeny, Pseudobogoriella confusa, tropical dry forest.
39615	de Lange P.J., Moncada B., Blanchon D., Ranft H. & Lücking R. (2026): The Pseudocyphellaria hookeri clade (Peltigerales): a species pair-photosymbiodeme speciation complex?. - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(1): 164–191. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0013. We present an integrative taxonomic revision of the Pseudocyphellaria hookeri group in Aotearoa | New Zealand. Molecular data of the fungal ITS barcoding marker resolve the group as monophyletic, in a strongly supported clade on a long stem branch, related to the P. crocata group. Our study confirms the three species previously assigned to this group, P. hookeri, P. durietzii, and P. montagnei, as part of this clade. In addition, a fourth species was detected and is formally described here, namely P. coralloidea sp. nov. It is characterized by a cyanobacterial photobiont and coralloid clusters of stout, robust isidia partially eroding into soralia-like structures. Given that the P. hookeri clade contains four different combinations of photobionts and reproductive structures (durietzii: green, apothecia; montagnei: green, phyllidia; hookeri: cyanobacterial, apothecia; coralloidea: cyanobacterial: isidia), we hypothesized that this clade evolved from a polymorphic ancestor representing both a photosymbiodeme and a species pair. Indeed, both cases are well documented in other taxa of Pseudocyphellaria. However, our results do not support such a conclusion, but rather indicate step-wise transitions between photobionts and/or reproductive strategy. We also found that P. durietzii and P. hookeri are not photomorphs sharing the same mycobiont, as previously suggested. All four species of the P. hookeri group are described and illustrated and their taxonomy is discussed, including a dichotomous key. We also provide information about their distribution, ecology, and conservation status. We introduce the term “soredisidia” for reproductive structures that represent a transition between genuine soralia and true isidia. This contribution is dedicated to our esteemed colleague, André Aptroot, on the occasion of his 65th birthday. Key words: Lobaria asperula, Lobarioideae, Peltigeraceae, Podostictina pickeringii, Sticta squamata, temporal banding.
39614	Kraichak E., Lücking R.,, Moncada B., Flynn T.W., Smith C.W. & Lumbsch H.T. (2026): Remarkable diversification of the lichenized genus Fissurina (Graphidales) in Hawai‘i. - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(1): 122–163. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0012. We present a molecular phylogenetic and taxonomic revision of the genus Fissurina (Graphidales) in Hawaiʻi. Compared to eight previously reported species, we distinguish a total of 26 species. Only four of the previously reported species are tentatively confirmed, namely F. columbina, F. globulifica, F. stromatoides, and F. zahlbruckneriana. An additional four species are new records for the archipelago, including F. consentanea, F. crassilabra, F. deficiens, and F. hyalinella. The following 18 species are described as new to science: F. alani sp. nov., differing from F. chrysocarpoides in the larger ascospores; F. biliana sp. nov., differing from F. hyalinella in the longer ascospores; F. brevicarpa sp. nov., differing from F. hyalinella in the short, broad, somewhat gall-forming lirellae; F. fissa sp. nov., differing from F. tachygrapha in the thicker thallus, the weak apical carbonization of the labia, and the relatively narrower ascospores; F. fuscella sp. nov., differing from F. tectigera in the apically carbonized labia and the shorter ascospores becoming brown when mature; F. fuscispora sp. nov., differing from F. dumastii and similar species in the ascospores becoming brown, and from F. fujisanensis in the non-carbonized labia; F. graphidoides sp. nov., differing from F. gomphospora in the dark labia contrasting with the lighter thallus, and from F. decipiens in the more distinct, dark grey labia lacking a black line along the slit; F. implicatoides sp. nov., differing from F. capsulata in the thin, largely endoperidermal thallus and in the shorter, broader ascospores; F. kokeensis sp. nov., differing from F. hyalinella in the presence of distinct (albeit thin) labia and in the weakly amyloid ascospores; F. mauiensis sp. nov., differing from F. fissa in the slightly smaller ascospores; F. montiformis sp. nov., differing from F. alligatorensis in the minutely gall-forming lirellae with concealed disc and the somewhat narrower ascospores; F. nigriannulata sp. nov., differing from F. hyalinella in the irregular black rim bordering the gaping disc of the lirellae; F. papillosa sp. nov., differing from F. insidiosa in the even thallus with numerous, tiny papillae; F. sandwicensis sp. nov., differing from F. fissa in the larger, muriform ascospores; F. serpentina sp. nov., differing from F. insidiosa in the very long, radiating lirellae; F. subcoarctata sp. nov., differing from F. coarctata in the more robust, less crowded lirellae; F. subcrassilabra sp. nov., differing from F. crassilabra in the less emergent lirellae with concealed disc and in the only weakly amyloid ascospore; and F. subtimidula sp. nov., differing from F. fissa in the much larger ascospores and from F. sandwicensis in the 3-septate ascospores. Based on our study, the number of species of Fissurina now known from Hawaiʻi has more than tripled and potential endemism has increased from zero to 78%. A key to all species now reported for Hawaiʻi is presented. This study is dedicated to our esteemed colleague and friend, André Aptroot, on the occasion of his 65th birthday, for his numerous contributions to the taxonomy of tropical crustose lichens. Key words: Endoperidermal, Fissurinaceae, Fissurinoideae, Graphidaceae.
39613	Sipman H.J.M., van den Boom P. & Rodrigues F.A. (2026): Which Ramalina species occur on the Azores? An approach using TLC and ITS barcoding sequences. - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(1): 97–121. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0011. The lichen genus Ramalina is well represented on the Azores islands, an isolated archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean. Fieldwork on several islands, loans from several herbaria, and the collecting of fresh samples, allowed us to identify lichen substances by TLC and to estimate the phylogenetic placement of taxa using ITS sequences from many samples. This confirmed the presence of 13 species, including R. portuensis as new to the Azores and new to Greece. Evidently the Ramalina biota of the Azores is considerably different from that of the Canary Islands and Madeira, by the lower number of species and by their affinities. A commented survey of all reported species, both accepted and rejected, is provided, and an identification key is added. Keywords: biodiversity; identification key; integrative taxonomy; lichenized fungi; phytogeography.
39612	Diederich P., Ertz D. & Timdal E. (2026): Coccocarpia aptrootii, a new lichen species from Mauritius. - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(1): 91–96. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0010 . A new species of Coccocarpia is described from Mauritius based on morphological and molecular evidence. The species is corticolous and currently known from four localities in parkland and natural mountain forest habitats. It is characterized by comparatively large thallus lobes, a distinctly pruinose upper surface, and abundant laminal isidia that are initially subspherical and later elongate into cylindrical to coralloid structures. Phylogenetic analysis of nuclear ITS rDNA sequences places the Mauritian material as a distinct lineage within Coccocarpia, not nested within any currently sampled species-level clade. The combined morphological distinctiveness and molecular differentiation support its recognition as a new species, here described as Coccocarpia aptrootii. This discovery further demonstrates that species diversity in Coccocarpia remains underestimated, particularly in tropical regions. Keywords: Indian Ocean; lichens; molecular phylogeny; new species; taxonomy.
39611	van Herk K. (C.M.), van der Kolk H.-J. & Sparrius L.B. (2026): Monitoring the effects of ammonia air pollution with epiphytic lichens in the Netherlands, 1989–2022, a review. - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(1): 83–90. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0009. This paper deals with the results of long-term lichen monitoring in the Netherlands. We review the results related to ammonia (NH3) air pollution over the period 1989–2022. NIW (nitrophyte abundance) and AIW (acidophyte abundance) were used as parameters to unite lichens with positive and negative responses to ammonia, respectively. Spatial patterns and temporal changes at large numbers of sampling sites with Oaks (Quercus robur) are compared and discussed. A steady decrease of acidophyte abundance (AIW) since 1989 is apparent, and continues up to now. The way in which AIW behaves strongly suggests that de-acidification of tree bark is the main cause of decline. This process is likely to be cumulative, i.e., proceeds as long as ammonia pollution continues. Recovery of bark acidity and acidophytic epiphytes is unlikely under current conditions. Loss of acidophytes is considered to be an important warning signal for habitat degradation. Changes in nitrophyte abundance (NIW) are not just the opposite of the AIW. Until 1998, there was a marked increase in nitrophyte abundance. After reaching its maximum in 1999, the NIW decreased again by 25–30%, probably as a result of measures to control the ammonia emissions. Nitrophytes had initially (
39610	Kukwa M., Szymczyk R. & Ossowska E.A. (2026): Notes on the Ramalina pollinaria group (Ramalinaceae, Ascomycota) in Poland, with the first records of R. arsenii from the country. - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(1): 75–82. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0008. The Ramalina pollinaria group is comprised of three species in Poland: R. arsenii, R. europaea and R. pollinaria. Their presence in the country is confirmed by sequencing the nuITS rDNA barcode marker. Ramalina arsenii is reported from Poland for the first time and this is the first corticolous record of this species. All species are characterized and compared morphologically. Keywords: fruticose lichens; lichenized fungi; taxonomy.
39609	Ansil P.A., Rajeshkumar K.C., Sharma B. & Lücking R. (2026): Clarifying the phylogenetic delimitation of Ocellularia upretii, the acid-deficient counterpart of Ocellularia allosporoides (Graphidaceae). - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(1): 64–74. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0007. This study aims to clarify the phylogenetic delimitation of Ocellularia upretii, a recently described, acid-deficient counterpart of Ocellularia allosporoides, which contains the unusual substances norisonotatic and norsubnotatic acid. We obtained new data on the mitochondrial small subunit and the nuclear large subunit rDNA, as well as rpb2, from several specimens collected in the Western Ghats of India. In addition to the newly generated molecular data, we provide an updated assessment of the taxa currently distinguished in this complex, including morphology, ascospores, chemistry, and distribution. This paper is dedicated to our esteemed colleague, André Aptroot, on the occasion of his 65th birthday. Key words: Ascomycota, Graphidaceae, Lichens, Phylogeny, Taxonomy.
39608	Lücking R., Torres J.-M., Elix J.A., Viñas-Portilla C. & Moncada B. (2026): Six new species of Sporostigma from Cuba and Colombia and confirmed placement of the genus in the Arthothelium-Pachnolepia-Snippocia-Tylophoron clade in Arthoniaceae. - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(1): 42–63. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0006. Revision of recently collected material in Cuba and Colombia revealed a surprising diversity of Sporostigma, a hitherto monospecific genus with spot-like mazaedia and Arthonia-type, brown ascospores, previously only known from Florida. Newly generated molecular sequence data place the genus in the Arthoniaceae, specifically in the clade containing the genera Arthothelium, Pachnolepia, Snippocia, and Tylophoron. Quantitative analysis of morphological and anatomical characters led to the distinction of six new species, which are formally described in this work: from Cuba, S. cubanum, differing from S. melasporum in the compact thallus, the lirellate-stellate ascomata with black mazaedia and thickened, crenulate thalline margin, and the smooth ascospores; and from Colombia, S. hieroglyphicum, differing from S. cubanum in the immersed-erumpent mazaedia with even, flattened margin and often with a split between mazaedium and thallus margin; S. immersellipsoideum, differing from S. melasporum in the sharply delimited mazaedia and the compact and smooth thallus; S. lobatum, differing from S. immersellipsoideum in the clearly erumpent mazaedia which become elongate-lobate, the rough thallus, and the comparatively broader ascospores with a typically papilliform proximal cell; S. pseudostromaticum, differing from S. cubanum in the notably pseudostromatic ascomata with branched to dissected individual mazaedia and with an even thallus margin; and S. stellatum, differing from S. pseudostromaticum in the rough thallus, the lack of secondary divisions of the mazaedia, and the slightly larger ascospores. This contribution is dedicated to our esteemed colleague and friend, André Aptroot, for his numerous and invaluable contributions to tropical crustose lichen taxonomy. Keywords: environmental impact studies; levantamiento de veda; mitochondrial small subunit rDNA; morphometrics.
39607	van den Boom P. & Sipman H. (2026): A new lichen species from New Guinea, Eugeniella sorediata. - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(1): 27–28. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0004. A new species from Papua New Guinea, collected during a lichenological expedition in 1992, is described as Eugeniella sorediata, new to science. Beside taxonomy, notes on chemistry and ecology are given. Key words: biodiversity, foliicolous, new species, tropical lichen.
39606	Ossowska E., Fierke J. & Kukwa M. (2026): Two lichen species, Bacidina caerulea and B. flavoleprosa (Ramalinaceae, Ascomycota), new to Poland and notes on the taxonomy of B. flavoleprosa. - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(1): 22–26. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0003. Two species, Bacidina caerulea and B. flavoleprosa, are reported from Poland. DNA sequencing was performed on all Polish specimens of both species. The nuITS rDNA sequence of B. caerulea showed 100% similarity to the OP256853 sequence, with no differences in nucleotide substitutions between them. In the case of B. flavoleprosa, Polish specimens exhibit a high degree of morphological and anatomical similarity to the protologue of B. flavoleprosa, however, the number of nucleotide substitutions in nuITS rDNA sequences referred to as this species shows considerable variation. However, since the morphology of the Polish specimens agree with that of B. flavoleprosa, and the number of available sequences is limited, we refrain from describing a new species. Key words: cryptic species, haplotype network, lichenized fungi, taxonomy.
39605	Lücking R., Cáceres M.E.S., Sparrius L., Sipman H.J.M., Miadlikowska J. & Flakus A. (2026): A tribute to André Aptroot, honoring his longstanding career in the taxonomy of lichenized and other fungi. - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(1): 1. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0001. anniversary
39604	van der Kolk H.-J. & Verboom L. (2026): Morphological evidence for the distinction of Alyxoria lichenoides and A. viridipruinosa from A. varia. - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(1): 29–41. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0005. The epiphytic lichen Alyxoria varia is often interpreted as an extremely variable species or as a complex of multiple species that is not yet well understood. Alyxoria lichenoides is sometimes recognized as a separate species, and recently Alyxoria viridipruinosa was newly described. However, it is still poorly known which characteristics are useful to distinguish these species from A. varia. Here, we studied and measured morphological characteristics of 83 specimens of A. varia s.l., mainly from the Netherlands, but with some additional specimens from other European countries. We measured the dimensions of the lirellae, ascospores and conidia. We found that Alyxoria lichenoides, A. varia and A. viridipruinosa can be reliably separated by differences in the size of their conidia. There are also differences in the size of the lirellae, size of the pycnidia and ascospores, but due to overlap not all specimens can be identified based on those characteristics alone. Alyxoria lichenoides and A. viridipruinosa are very variable species with respect to the abundance of pycnidia, size and shape of the lirellae, thallus color and pruina presence. Some morphotypes can, however, still be identified with certainty in the field. Alyxoria lichenoides is currently one of the most common epiphytic lichens in the Netherlands, especially in coastal areas. It occurs in woodlands, parks and on roadside trees. Alyxoria viridipruinosa occurs in similar habitats, but is somewhat scarcer, and due to its smaller size and generally inconspicuous thallus easily overlooked. Alyxoria varia is rare in the Netherlands and occurs in drier habitats. It prefers woodlands and parks and is not bound to coastal areas. We recommend that lichenologists in Europe distinguish Alyxoria varia, A. viridipruinosa and A. lichenoides as three separate species. Future studies that include molecular data could reveal whether even more species are involved. Key words: Arthoniales, Ascomycetes, biodiversity, epiphyte, lichens, Opegraphaceae, species delimitation, taxonomy.
39603	Wilk K. & Flakus A. (2026): Caloplaca aptrootii (Teloschistaceae), a new blastidiate species with a dark-brown squamulose thallus from the Bolivian Andes. - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(1): 223–231. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0016. Caloplaca aptrootii is described as a new species based on morphological, anatomical, and molecular evidence. Phylogenetic analyses of a three-locus dataset (ITS, nuLSU, and mtSSU) place it within Caloplaca s.str. in the subfamily Caloplacoideae. Morphologically, the species fits well within the current circumscription of the genus, being characterized by a thallus containing the Sedifolia-grey pigment rather than anthraquinones, lecanorine apothecia, and the presence of blastidia. It is, however, unusual in possessing a distinctly squamulose thallus. The new species most closely resembles C. chlorina, but differs in having a thicker, squamulose thallus, a thicker thalline cortex, a distinct epinecral layer, and larger ascospores. The species inhabits high Andean vegetation, where it grows on siliceous rock outcrops. Additionally, a revised checklist of crustose Teloschistaceae species known from Bolivia is presented, and the new combination Lacrima erythrantha is proposed. Further records of the latter species from Bolivia are provided. Key words: biodiversity, lichen-forming fungi, new combination, new species, phylogeny, South America, tropical Andes, vegetative propagules.
39602	Lücking R., Cáceres M.E.S., Sparrius L. & Sipman H.J.M. (2026): André Aptroot – A life for lichens. - Plant and Fungal Systematics, 71(1): 2–21. https://doi.org/10.35535/pfsyst-2026-0002. On April 7, 2026, André Aptroot celebrated his 65th birthday. Here, we provide a concise biographic sketch of his career in lichenology and mycology. André is considered one of the most prolific lichenologists and mycologists of all time and the most prolific in modern history, publishing more than 1,230 scientific works and describing 1,332 new taxa to date, including 1,265 species, 65 genera, and two infraspecies. He is one of only about a handful of global specialists in tropical lichens, with numerous contributions to the knowledge of the lichen biota of diverse regions across the globe. Especially important is his work in numerous tropical areas, including Mexico, Costa Rica, Ecuador and the Galapagos, the Guianas, Brazil, Madagascar, China, Thailand, Vietnam, Taiwan, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, and Australia. In this dedication, we provide a concise overview of André’s career and touch on his impact on global lichen and fungal taxonomy. Key words: Graphidaceae, Pleosporales, Pyrenulaceae, Sordariomycetes, Trypetheliaceae.
39601	Zhurbenko M.P. (2026): Sphaeropezia everniae, a new lichenicolous ascomycete from Alaska. - Graphis Scripta, 38(4): 91–95. https://nhm2.uio.no/botanisk/lav/Graphis/38_4/GS_38_91.pdf. Sphaeropezia everniae, growing on Evernia perfragilis, with ascomata mostly 175–275 μm diam., a pore mostly 30–90 μm diam., an exposed ascomatal wall mostly 45–87 μm wide, a lateral exciple 30–85 μm thick, poorly developed periphysoids, a K/I+ blue hymenium, ascospore walls and septa, and (1–)3(–4)-septate ascospores, mostly 12–14 × 4.5–5.5 μm, is described as new to science from northern Alaska.
39600	Thell A., Kondratyuk S. & Seaward M. (2026): A tribute to Ingvar Kärnefelt (1944–2026). - Graphis Scripta, 38(4): 96–97. https://nhm2.uio.no/botanisk/lav/Graphis/38_4/GS_38_96.pdf. obituary
39599	Tagirdzhanova G., Brown N.E., Bucknell A.H., Cameron E.S., Finn R.D., Blaxter M., McDonald M.C., Gluck-Thaler E. & Talbot N.J. (2026): Tangerine: A new family of Starships from lichen-forming fungi. - Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 123(33): e2534402123 [12 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2534402123. Lichens are symbiotic associations between filamentous fungi and photosynthetic microorganisms, such as green algae and/or cyanobacteria, that result in a single anatomically complex structure that can thrive in environments inhospitable to most organisms, including arctic tundra, high mountains, and deserts. Recent evidence suggests that lichens may be even more complex than previously appreciated, containing multiple microbial constituents, but how genomes of the principal fungal symbiont (which provides the majority of biomass in lichen tissue) have been shaped during evolution is largely unexplored. Recently, giant transposable elements called Starships have been found in many genomes of filamentous fungi, but to which extent they occur in lichen-forming fungi is not known. In this report, we describe a Starship element from the lichen fungus Xanthoria parietina. This element, named Tangerine, contains several genes that have signatures of horizontal gene transfer from nonlichen-forming fungi, most likely from black yeasts of the Chaetothyriales, that are often lichen-associated. Repetitive sequences carried by Tangerine, and found in other sites in Xanthoria genomes, are affected by repeat-induced point mutation, a mechanism of genome defense against transposable elements, consistent with fungal sexual reproduction which always precedes new lichen formation by X. parietina. Tangerine’s “captain” belongs to a newly defined family of tyrosine recombinases specific to lichen-forming Lecanoromycetes. Several other captain clades have signatures of horizontal gene transfer between distantly related lichen-forming fungi and nonmycobiont lichen-associated fungi. We speculate that Starships may play a significant, yet hitherto unrecognized role, in lichen genome evolution and provide a roadmap for further investigation. Keywords: lichen; symbiosis; genomics; Starship; transposon.
39598	Darul K. & Pruchniewicz D. (2026): The application of Parmelia sulcata Taylor and Picea abies (L.) H. Karst. as biomonitors of atmospheric pollution in the Central Sudetes. - Plants, 15(16) :2454 [12 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15162454. One of the major environmental problems in recent years is the deterioration of atmospheric air quality. Human activity in urban areas leads to the emission of particulate mat-ter containing various chemical components, including toxic heavy metals, which can accumulate in living organisms. The accumulation of pollutants by various species in mountain environments remains insufficiently understood. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the potential use of two species commonly co-occurring in mountain habitats—epiphytic lichen Parmelia sulcata Taylor and spruce Picea abies L., H. Karst.—as biomonitors of anthropogenic atmospheric pollution. The study was conducted in the Central Sudetes (Poland), across three site categories characterized by varying degrees of anthropogenic pressure (green, rural and urban areas). The results confirm that Parmelia sulcata can serve as a species reflecting heavy-metal contamination originating from atmospheric deposition, mainly lead, iron, cadmium and chromium, whereas the needles of Picea abies are useful mainly for indicating manganese pollution. No significant effect of anthropogenic pressure on heavy-metal concentrations was found, which is most likely related to specific air circulation in mountain areas that leads to the dispersion of air pollutants and their accumulation by the study species in the higher regions of the Central Sudetes. Keywords: particulate matter; heavy metals; biomonitoring; lichens; coniferous.
39597	Vicol I. (2026): Genetic diversity of epiphytic lichens approached in the context of forest connectivity and fragmentation at different spatial scales – a review. - Cryptogamie, Mycologie, 47(5): 59–69. https://doi.org/10.5252/cryptogamiemycologie2026v47a5. To protect lichen species, habitats with large populations need to be conserved, alongside with genetic diversity. The genetic variation in lichen populations is significantly impacted by forest connectivity. Additionally, the genetic variation of populations is determined by the reproductive mode of lichens and their dispersal capacity. The microclimate and macroclimate shape symbiotic complexity supported by cryptic lineages of symbionts adapted to various environmental conditions. Climate and dispersal vectors, in the context of different adaptation strategies of symbiotic complexity, highlight an integrative biological connectivity framework with multiple interactions which occur at local and large spatial scales. Conservation genetic and forest management measures are important policy actions intended to prevent the extinction of lichens populations and species and to ensure their long-term survival within complex landscapes. In the context of the conservation and management of forest habitats, novel technologies (metagenomics, assisted migration and remote sensing) that provide important data are needed to identify refugia and hotspot areas for lichens. One of the planetary drivers with an imminent impact on biodiversity is global warming, which removes climatic barriers and could be implicated in the extinction of the genetic heritage of lichens in cold habitats. Therefore, conservation actions must be taken to reduce or avoid the risk extinction of lichen populations. Keywords: Epiphytic lichens, forest connectivity, forest fragmentation, forest management, genetic diversity.
39596	Pistocchi C., Gheza G., Di Nuzzo L., Francesconi L., Girlanda S., Hafellner J., Kray R., Mayrhofer H., Nimis P.L., Thüs H. & Nascimbene J. (2026): Exploring the lichen biota of Italy: New records from the Italian Alps and Northern Apennines. - Microorganisms, 138: 237–247. https://doi.org/10.3897/mycokeys.138.197797. The onset of rapid climate change makes it urgent to intensify exploration of potentially threatened lichen biota, especially in mountain areas. In recent years we intensified field sampling in both the Alps and the Northern Apennines, and critically re-examined herbarium specimens from earlier campaigns to improve taxonomic resolution and occurrence records. This paper synthesizes those efforts, providing a robust empirical basis for assessing lichen dynamics in these mountain systems and for informing conservation priorities. Overall, we report 518 occurrences corresponding to 288 infrageneric taxa. Of these, 33 taxa are new to Italy and 255 are newly recorded for at least one Italian administrative region. For several taxa we supply integrated occurrence, ecological and molecular data that clarify aspects of their global distribution, and taxonomic circumscription. The high incidence of species with boreal-montane to arctic-alpine distributions in the Northern Apennines supports the hypothesis that these mountains act as southern outposts for elements of the arctic-boreal biota. Our results also highlight the enduring value of herbaria as repositories of primary biodiversity data and underscore the necessity of continued field exploration to keep species lists and distributional knowledge up to date in the face of accelerating environmental change. Key words: Arctic-alpine lichens, biodiversity conservation, boreal-montane lichens, fieldwork, herbaria, lichen inventory, primary data.
39595	Escalona-Acuña M.I., Dzul-Beh Á., Tapia S., Cortés Peña P., Brito I., Bórquez J., Molina Salinas G.M. & Orrego P.R. (2026): Chrysothrix sp., a lichen from Paposo Fog Oasis: Antibacterial potential to combat multidrug-resistant ESKAPE-E pathogens. - Microorganisms, 14(8): 1766 [12 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms14081766. Lichens are mutualistic symbiosis between a fungus (mycobiont) and an alga or cyanobacteria (photobiont), forming metabolically versatile holobionts capable of producing diverse secondary metabolites that facilitate their survival in extreme environments. Chrysothrix species, commonly known as “gold dust lichens,” are characterized by their vivid yellow thalli and their production of pulvinic acid derivatives, although their bioactive potential remains poorly explored. In this study, using organic chemistry techniques, we characterized the methanolic extract of Chrysothrix sp.—collected from the Paposo Fog Oasis in northern Chile, a unique coastal ecosystem sustained by persistent fog (“camanchacas”) within the Atacama Desert—and identified calycin as its major secondary metabolite through chromatographic purification and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Antibacterial assays revealed that both the crude methanolic extract and purified calycin exhibited selective inhibitory activity against multidrug-resistant Gram-positive ESKAPE-E pathogens. Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations (MICs) ranged from 125 to 500 μg/mL, with the strongest effects observed against Enterococcus faecium (MDR, VRE) and Staphylococcus aureus (MDR, MRSA). No meaningful activity was detected against Gram-negative bacteria, consistent with the known permeability barrier conferred by the outer membrane. This work provides the first evidence of antibacterial activity for calycin isolated from Chrysothrix sp., highlighting the relevance of pulvinic acid derivatives as promising scaffolds for antimicrobial development. These findings highlight the potential of lichen-derived agents and alternative sources of antibacterial agents to address the global challenge of antimicrobial resistance. Keywords: antibacterial; calycin; Chrysothrix sp.; ESKAPE-E group; fog oasis; methanolic extract; secondary metabolites.
39594	Wang J., Tian Y., Tian J. & Xie Q. (2026): Biodeterioration control of the Longhu Pagoda Stone Heritage, China: Identification of deteriogens and evaluation of biocidal efficacy. - Materials, 19(16): 3361 [19 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19163361. Longhu Pagoda, a national key cultural heritage site located at the southern foot of Hushan Mountain in Liubao, Jinan, Shandong Province, is a masterpiece of Tang-dynasty stone pagoda architecture and a core component of the Shentong Temple heritage complex alongside the Four Gates Pagoda. The pagoda features a distinctive “Tang-dynasty body, Song-dynasty crown” structure: its stone base and main body, carved with intricate high-reliefs of dragons, tigers, heavenly kings, arhats, and apsaras, date back to the late Tang Dynasty (717–845 AD), while the brick eaves and roof were reconstructed during the Northern Song Dynasty. Severely threatened by biodeterioration induced by bryophytes, lichens, and associated microorganisms, the pagoda’s exquisitely carved stone surface has undergone irreversible aesthetic degradation and structural weakening, threatening its thousand-year-old artistic integrity. Biocide treatment is a commonly adopted strategy for stone heritage conservation. This study aims to characterize the specific biodeteriogens colonizing Longhu Pagoda and evaluate the efficacy of various biocides for targeted conservation intervention. In this study, biological samples collected from Longhu Pagoda were first identified: bryophyte samples contained chloroplasts, with some having morphological characteristics similar to Pottiaceae or Grimmiaceae; symbiotic algae isolated from lichen samples were identified as Chlorella sp.; four dominant fungal strains were isolated via morphological observation and molecular sequencing (ITS), namely Aspergillus niger (F1), Trichoderma yunnanense (F2), Talaromyces ruber (F3), and Aspergillus aflatoxiformans (F4). On this basis, the inhibitory effects of different biocides on dominant deteriorating organisms were systematically evaluated via chlorophyll fluorescence analysis, algal growth inhibition tests, and oxford cup assays, combined with field verification on Longhu Pagoda. The optimal biocide with stable inhibition efficacy and favorable stone compatibility was screened out. The results provide technical support for the biological conservation of Longhu Pagoda and similar stone cultural relics suffering from microbial biodeterioration. Keywords: stone cultural heritage; Longhu Pagoda; biodeterioration; bryophytes; lichens; biocides.
39593	Li Z.-Y., Wang Q., Iqbal M.S. & Tumier A. (2026): Species diversity and elevational patterns of saxicolous lichens in the Eastern Pamir Plateau, China. - Diversity, 18(8): 470 [18 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/d18080470. Saxicolous lichens are crucial elements of alpine ecosystems and are involved in soil formation, rock weathering, nutrient cycling, and environmental monitoring. However, little is known about their distribution patterns and diversity on the eastern Pamir Plateau of China. This study looked at the variety and elevational distribution of saxicolous lichens in China’s eastern Pamir Plateau’s Taxkorgan Nature Reserve. Six transects spanning an elevational range of 3500–4500 m were used for field studies in July and August of 2025. Stratified sampling was used to gather lichen specimens, which were then identified by morphological, anatomical, chemical (thin-layer chromatography), and molecular investigations. Lichens communities’ similarity across altitudes was evaluated using Sørensen’s index, and diversity indices such as Simpson, Shannon–Wiener, and Pielou’s consistency were computed. A total of 69 saxicolous lichen species from 12 families and 27 genera were identified. With 95.6% of all species, crustose lichens predominated, whilst foliose and fruticose forms were uncommon. Acarosporaceae and Megasporaceae were the most species-rich families, accounting for over half of total recognized species. In the study region, Aspicilia and Acarospora dominated at the genus level. Saxicolous lichen species richness exhibited a unimodal elevational pattern, peaking at 4101–4300 m with pronounced community turnover across altitudes, as supported by Sørensen similarity values (0.253–0.561). Additionally, substrate type affected lichen distribution, with siliceous rocks hosting richer lichen communities than calcareous substrates. In general, the richness and distribution of saxicolous lichens in the alpine ecosystems of the eastern Pamir Plateau are mostly determined by elevation and rock type. This work provides essential baseline data for lichen biodiversity in the region and highlights the potential use of lichens as bio-indicators for monitoring environmental change in high-mountain ecosystems. Keywords: alpine ecosystems; biodiversity patterns; environmental bio-indicators; Northwest China.
39592	Li Y., Gao Y., Duan D., Shen X., Tang X., Yi M., Su B., Fang Z., Xu W., Huang W. & Yu H. (2026): Effects of biological soil crust development on extractable nutrient fractions in adjacent surface soils of the Gurbantunggut Desert. - Soil Systems, 10(8): 87 [13 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/soilsystems10080087. Biological soil crusts (BSCs) are important components of dryland ecosystems, yet nutrient patterns in adjacent uncovered soils remain unclear. We surveyed 70 sites across the Gurbantunggut Desert and collected 209 composite samples from the adjacent 0–5 cm surface-soil layer, categorized into three groups: uncrusted bare sand (n = 32), soil adjacent to algal–lichen crusts (n = 48), and soil adjacent to moss crusts (n = 129), with bare sand serving as the uncrusted reference category. The results showed that: (1) total nitrogen differed among the three BSC-associated soil categories (p = 0.041), whereas soil organic carbon, total phosphorus, and total potassium did not (all p > 0.05); (2) NO3−-N, NH4+-N, extractable inorganic N, NaHCO3-extractable phosphorus, and NH4OAc-extractable potassium differed significantly among categories (all p
39591	Uras İ.S., Candido P.H.S., Luís C.M., Marques V., Rodrigues C.M.P., Sobral R.G., Baurmeister A., Konuklugil B. & Gaudêncio S.P. (2026): Antarctic marine-derived fungi: Metabolomic signatures and antibiofilm-driven anti-infective potential against drug resistant pathogens. - Marine Drugs, 24(8): 267 [20 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/md24080267. Antarctic marine-derived fungi represent an underexplored reservoir of bioactive secondary metabolites shaped by extreme environmental pressures. In this study, nine fungal isolates obtained from Antarctic macroalgae, lichens, sponge tissue, and sediments were evaluated for their antimicrobial, anticancer, antibiofilm, and metabolomic profiles. Untargeted LC–MS/MS molecular networking (GNPS) revealed a chemically rich metabolome, dominated by alkaloids, followed by polyketides, meroterpenoids, and diketopiperazines, with Penicillium crustosum (A15A) emerging as a major biosynthetic contributor. The annotation of structurally diverse metabolites, including roquefortines, viridicatin derivatives, andrastins, and multiple diketopiperazines, highlights the metabolic plasticity of Antarctic fungi. Anticancer evaluation indicated cytotoxicity, with Aspergillus awamori (A30), Alternaria malorum (A36), and Cladosporium malorum (A38) displaying activity toward HCT 116 colorectal cancer cells at IC50 ≥ 30 µg/mL. Extracts were screened against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA, COL), methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA, NCTC8325 4), and Escherichia coli K12, revealing low to no activity against these pathogens. Six of the nine isolates exhibited strong antibiofilm activity without inhibiting planktonic bacterial growth, indicating selective biofilm inhibition against MSSA and meeting the criteria for clinical developmental “hits”. Biofilm inhibition ranged from 81.10% to 98.50%, with A15A showing the highest activity (98.50% at 250 µg/mL), followed by A36 (91.16% at 31.35 µg/mL). Botrytis sp. (A22A), P. chrysogenum (A7), Ulocladium microsporum (A24B), and A30 also demonstrated strong antibiofilm activity (81.10–85.89%). To our knowledge, this is the first report describing antibiofilm activity of Antarctic fungal extracts. Keywords: extreme environments; marine-derived Antarctic fungi; natural products; secondary metabolites; untargeted LC–MS/MS; GNPS molecular networking; antimicrobial; antibiofilm and cytotoxicity activities; blue biotechnology.
39590	Starka R., Rūsiņa S., Auniņa L., Balalaikins M., Butkeviča J., Cera I., Čakstiņa D., Čeirāns A., Gailis J., Liepiņa L., Leimanis I., Mežaka A., Moisejevs R., Ozols J., Pilāte D., Priedniece I., Riters R., Rubene B., Strazdiņa L., Šakele V., Vancāns A., Vērpēja V., Vintulis V., Župerka M., Vinogradovs I., Auniņš A. & Avotiņš A. (2026): Occurrence data for habitat suitability modelling to support conservation planning in Latvia: species list, observations and ecogeographical variable selection. - Biodiversity Data Journal, 14: e194577 [29 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3897/BDJ.14.e194577. Background: Achieving the goals of the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 requires reliable, evidence‑based tools to guide conservation planning. Habitat suitability models can help identify priority areas by predicting suitable habitats for taxa of conservation concern. However, their usefulness depends heavily on the quality of input data. Using heterogeneous data sources, especially citizen-science occurrences, poses challenges for ensuring quality-informed use of these records. In addition, inconsistencies in the selection of environmental variables can compromise the reliability of the results, particularly when combining predictions across multiple species. Therefore, transparent species selection and rigorous, harmonised data preparation are essential for producing robust spatial assessments that can effectively support national‑level conservation decisions. New information: We present conceptual framework and methodological rationale for a structured dataset for model-based conservation planning in Latvia, from species selection and observations to species-specific ecogeographical variable selection. The framework was developed and the dataset created as a part of the state research programmes project "HiQBioDiv: High-resolution quantification of biodiversity for conservation and management". The dataset provides a basis for multi-taxon habitat suitability modelling that can be further used in site prioritisation for conservation as well as in ecological and socio-economic assessments. As a part of this dataset, we provide 162,186 expert-filtered occurrences from 464 taxa, most of which were previously unavailable to the international community. Keywords: habitat suitability models, multispecies prioritisation, spatial planning.
39589	Hellou S., Chikh Y.A., Ferron S., Bernard A., Kumar G.D., Babu K.S., Pizarro D., Boustie J., Uriac P., Divakar P.K. & Le Dévehat F. (2026): Integrated metabolomic and phylogenetic profiling of Parmelia species from Algeria. - Bryologist, 129(3): 178–192. https://doi.org/10.1639/0007-2745-129.3.17. Algeria's geographic position, between the Mediterranean Sea and the desert, provides a valuable context for understanding lichen species distributions. However, lichens in this country remain poorly studied. To address this gap, 36 specimens of the genus Parmelia were collected from northern Algeria and analyzed using molecular phylogenetic methods and comprehensive chemical profiling. Four species of the genus Parmelia sensu stricto (P. omphalodes, P. saxatilis, P. sulcata, and P. submontana) have previously been reported from Algeria. In this study, the identities of P. sulcata sensu stricto and P. submontana were confirmed using molecular data. In addition, four species are newly reported for Algeria: Parmelia barrenoae, P. encryptata, P. neosaxatilis and P. serrana. Notably, all Algerian samples previously identified as P. saxatilis sensu lato are here reassigned to P. serrana, with one sample identified as P. neosaxatilis, suggesting that P. saxatilis sensu stricto may not occur in Algeria. A comprehensive chemical profiling of all specimens of selected Parmelia species is presented. Our results show that the combined analytical approaches using HPLC equipped with diode-array, evaporative light scattering, and mass spectrometric detectors, together with TLC (using UV detector and rhodamine 6G and sulfuric anisaldehyde reagents), enabled the straightforward detection of the discriminant metabolites α-methylene butyrolactones (lichesterinic acid derivatives) and lobaric acid. These compounds distinguish P. ernstiae from P. serrana and P. saxatilis sensu stricto. However, the chemical analyses did not allow differentiation among the three cryptic species P. encryptata, P. barrenoae and P. sulcata sensu stricto. This integrative approach to studying cryptic species may provide a framework for the determination of their precise biogeographical distributions. Keywords: Lichens, chemical diversity, molecular phylogeny, new records, HPLC-DAD-MS, cryptic species, North Africa.
39588	Zhurbenko M.P. (2026): Cecidonia protoblasteniae (Lecideales), a new lichenicolous discomycete on Protoblastenia terricola from the Russian Arctic. - Phytotaxa, 768(2): 88–92. https://doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.768.2.4. A new lichenicolous discomycete, Cecidonia protoblasteniae, is described as new to science from the Russian Arctic. The new species is characterized by dark, superficial lecideine apothecia with a prominent margin; a cupular, dark brown exciple that is K−, N+ reddish brown; a greyish brown epihymenium; branched, anastomosing, coherent paraphyses that are apically hardly enlarged; 8-spored asci resembling the Porpidia-type; hyaline, broadly ellipsoid to subglobose, aseptate ascospores; and by its growing on Protoblastenia terricola. Key words: lichen parasites, Siberia, taxonomy.
39587	Halder S., Aptroot A. & Gachhui R. (2026): New species of Thelopsis and two new records of lichens from India. - Feddes Repertorium, 137: e70140 [4 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1002/fedr.70140. The present study deals with a new species of saxicolous crustose lichen Thelopsis indica and two new records of corticolous crustose lichens named as Cryptothecia nigeriensis and Fissurina varieseptata from India. The new species of Thelopsis was collected from Horhap forest of Jharkhand, India. It is diagnosed as epilithic, smooth, areolate thallus c. 0.1–0.8 mm across, ascomata on thalline warts, 1–2 sunken ostioles, paraphysoids reticulately branched and anastomosing, ascospores 1‐septate, c. 5–6 × 2.5–2.75 μm, halonate. Cryptothecia nigeriensis and Fissurina varieseptata were collected from West Bengal, India. The species were identified and described on the basis of morpho‐anatomical and phytochemical parameters. Keywords: Jharkhand | lichen forming fungi | new taxa | taxonomy.
39586	Roux C., Poumarat S., Gueidan C., Rettig J., Navarro-Rosinés P., Monnat J.-Y., Houmeau J.-M., Pinault P. & Blaise P. (2026): La Acarosporaceae de Okcidenta Eŭropo — 2a eldono. - Bulletin de la Société linnéenne de Provence, 77, a11: 21594196 [61 p.]. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21594196. [in Esperanto with French, German, Spanish and English summary: ] Illustrated generalities and identification key of the species of Acarosporaceae of Western Europe. Treatment of 145 species belonging to 9 genera. New species : Acarospora decipiens sp. nov.
39585	Roux C. (2026): Petit dictionnaire lichénologique espéranto-français — Likenologia vortareto Esperanto-franca. - Bulletin de la Société linnéenne de Provence, 20 (num. sp.): 1–9. doi: 10.5281/zenodo.21593974.
39584	Qu H., Pang K., Gan T., Loron C.C., Ouyang Q., Cui W., Li G., Yuan X. & Xiao S. (2026): Fungal–algal associations from the early Ediacaran herald increasing symbiotic complexity before modern lichens. - Proceedings of the Royal Society B, 293(2075): 20260673 [12 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2026.0673. Symbiosis is a fundamental biological relationship and metabolic strategy that drove eukaryotic evolution and shaped early ecosystems. Lichens, as symbiotic consortia of fungi (mycobionts) and photosynthesizers (photobionts), are a paradigmatic example. However, molecular analysis suggests that lichenized fungi did not appear before land plants, and the evolutionary trajectory of fungal–algal interactions before modern lichens remains hitherto enigmatic. Here, we conduct a detailed reinvestigation of the lichen-like microfossils from the early Ediacaran (approx. 600 Ma) Weng’an biota in South China by combining light and confocal laser scanning microscopy with Raman spectroscopy. The fossils are systematically described as Wenganomyces primitivus gen. et sp. nov., characterized by filamentous mycobionts and coccoidal photobionts. Raman spectroscopy of these symbionts and other taxa from the same horizon shows distinct chemospace distributions, indicating different biological precursors. 3D reconstruction reveals two major types of lichen-like interactions in Wenganomyces, i.e. encirclement and tangential contact; these newly identified symbiotic features are comparable with some modern fungal–algal associations. Comparison with extant and other fossil symbiotic associations indicates an early possession of symbiotic ability in fungi, and underscores a developmental spectrum with increasing symbiotic complexity predating the rise of modern lichens, which might have paved the way for lichenization. Keywords: South China, early Ediacaran, Doushantuo Formation, fungal–algal association, symbiotic complexity.
39583	Carvalho P., López de Silanes M.E., Paz-Bermúdez G., Marques J. & Figueira R. (2026): Checklist of lichens and lichenicolous fungi from mainland Portugal. - Journal of Fungi, 12(8): 549 [25 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/jof12080549. Mainland Portugal has a lichenological tradition spanning more than three centuries, yet it still lacks a modern, critically revised checklist of its lichen biota. This gap is particularly relevant given the increasing role of species checklists as authoritative references for DNA metabarcoding applications and the expansion of large biodiversity datasets, including those derived from citizen science initiatives. Here we present the first comprehensive checklist of lichens and lichenicolous fungi recorded from Mainland Portugal, based on the critical assessment of 43,718 bibliographic records drawn from 381 publications issued between 1788 and 2021. A total of 2012 species and infraspecific taxa are documented from a universe of 4440 taxonomic names, including synonyms. Nomenclature was updated in accordance with the ITALIC 8.0 database. Species distributions are provided by province, following the scheme adopted in Portuguese botanical floras, with additional information on substrates and altitudinal ranges where available. With over 2000 taxa recorded, Mainland Portugal can be considered a lichen-rich territory relative to its land area, comparing favourably with other European checklists. We discuss the factors underlying this diversity, with particular emphasis on the biogeographical position of Portugal at the south-western edge of the European continent. Keywords: biodiversity; Iberian Peninsula; lichenised fungi; nomenclature; taxonomy; Western Europe.
39582	Nimis P.L., Dose S., Pittao E., Sargsyan N., Muggia L. & Gasparyan A. (2026): Life on UNESCO heritage: Modelling lichen colonization on an Armenian cross-stone (khachkar). - Journal of Fungi, 12(8): 547 [14 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/jof12080547. This study investigates lichen colonisation on a medieval basalt Armenian cross-stone (khachkar) in the Noratus cemetery, the largest extant concentration of memorial khachkars in Armenia, integrating fine-scale vegetation sampling, microhabitat assessment, and multivariate analysis. A preliminary survey of c. 30 cross-stones confirmed that the selected one was representative of the site. Thirty-six evenly spaced relevés of 10 cm2 were recorded across the surface, with lichens identified macroscopically in situ and supported by laboratory-verified reference material from outside the protected area. Microhabitat descriptors were recorded, and ecological preferences were assessed using indicator values. The main environmental drivers at Noratus appear to be high solar irradiation, pronounced aridity and especially elevated nutrient deposition. Numerical classification and ordination revealed three main lichen communities, structured primarily by micro-scale water availability, exposure, and nutrient enrichment, which occupy different portions of the monument. The absence of endolithic lichens, together with the dry–cold climate of Noratus and the resistance of basalt to bioweathering, suggests limited structural impact. However, pronounced chromatic alteration was observed, producing a characteristic polychromy on the cross-stones. Lichen removal is likely to be problematic due to the extent of the cemetery, the prevalence of vegetative reproduction, and rapid recolonisation of nitrophilous species. This is the first study ever carried out on lichen colonisation of Armenian cross-stones, which are inscribed on the UNESCO List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The results provide a baseline for future monitoring and support a conservation approach balancing material risk assessment with aesthetic considerations. Keywords: bioweathering; chromatic alteration; eutrophication; lichenized fungi; Noratus cemetery; vegetation.
39581	Khodosovtsev O.Ye. (2026): Notes to lichen-forming and lichenicolous fungi in Ukraine V. - Chornomorski Botanical Journal, 22(2): 171–185. https://doi.org/10.32999/ksu1990-553X/2026-22-2-3. Materials and methods: field observations, microscope technique. Nomenclature: Index Fungorum www.indexfungorum.org. Results: This contribution presents new data on the lichen-forming and lichenicolous fungi of Ukraine. It includes new records and confirmations for 61 species of lichen-forming and 9 species of lichenicolous fungi within Odesa and Volyn regions. The lichens were primarily found at the bases of old oak and pine trees, the circumferences of which is also provided for each locality. The reported taxa belong to the genera Acrocordia, Agonimia, Anisomeridium, Arthonia, Bacidia, Bacidina, Bactrospora, Candelariella, Catillaria, Chaenotheca, Cladonia, Cladophialophora, Coppinsiella, Cornutispora, Didymocyrtis, Diploschistes, Fellhanera, Flavoplaca, Eopyrenula, Halecania, Hypocenomyce, Gyalecta, Gyalectiphila, Kuettlingeria, Lecania, Lecidea, Lecidella, Lepraria, Lichenoconium, Micarea, Mycocalicium, Myrionora, Oxneria, Parmeliopsis, Psoroglaena, Ramalina, Rinodina, Phaeophyscia, Physciella, Physconia, Placynthiella, Polycauliona, Punctelia, Staurothele, Strangospora, Swinscowia, Taeniolella, Thelenella, Trapeliopsis, Trichoconis, Unguiculariopsis, and Verrucaria. Among these, 31 species are reported for the first time for the Volyn region, and 39 species are new to the Odesa region. Notably, Agonimia repleta, Bacidina neosquamulosa, Fellhanera gyrophorica, Gyalecta arbuti, Halecania viridescens, and Swinscowia affinis represent the first records for the lowland part of Ukraine. The species Fellhanera gyrophorica, Gyalecta arbuti, Strigula affinis, and Unguiculariopsis thallophila represent the second records for Ukraine. The study provides recent data from 14 Nature Reserves of national and local significance, including the Danycheve Botanical Reserve, Dibrova Mohylevska Landscape Reserve, Savranskyi Lis Landscape Reserve, Sliusarivskyi Dub Natural Monument, and the Staromanzyrskyi and Tarutynskyi Step Landscape Reserves in the Odesa region, as we as the “Duby zvychaini-veletni” Botanical Natural Monument, Litynskyi Landscape Reserve, Ozerianskyi Zoological Reserve, Radovychivskyi Landscape Reserve, Sosnyna-2 Botanical Natural Monument, Voloshky Landscape Reserve, and Zadybskyi Landscape Reserve in the Volyn region. Keywords: biodiversity, forests, old trees, oak, pine, lowland, Odesa region, Volyn region, Agonimia, Bacidina, Fellhanera, Halecania, Swinscowia, Unguiculariopsis.
39580	Mathew G.N. & Jagadeesh Ram T.A.M. (2026): Two new species of Carbacanthographis (Graphidaceae, lichenised Ascomycota) from the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve, Southern Western Ghats, India. - Annales Botanici Fennici, 63(1): 177–181. https://doi.org/10.5735/085.063.0124. Carbacanthographis agasthyamalana George N. Mathew & Jagad. Ram and C. kalakadensis George N. Mathew & Jagad. Ram (Graphidaceae, lichenised Ascomycota) are described from India. Carbacanthographis agasthyamalana has an ecorticate thallus, a completely carbonised excipulum, a clear hymenium, transversely septate ascospores and protocetraric acid as the lichen substance. Carbacanthographis kalakadensis has a corticate thallus, a completely carbonised excipulum, an inspersed hymenium, muriform ascospores and it lacks lichen substances. A key to all the known Carbacanthographis species from India is provided.
39579	Maurya A.K., Mishra G.K. & Upreti D.K. (2026): Dacampia himalayana A.K. Maurya, G.K. Mishra & Upreti sp. nov. (Dacampiaceae) from India with a worldwide key to the genus. - Phytotaxa , 767(3): 225–235. https://doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.767.3.2. A new species of lichenicolous fungi, Dacampia himalayana sp. nov., is described from the Kumaun Himalayan region in Bagheshwar district of Uttarakhand, India, found growing on Cladonia pyxidata. Morphologically, the new species is characterized by forming semi-immersed perithecioid ascomata, 6-spored asci, sub-muriform to muriform ascospores (18.2–) 20.6–24.3 (–25.9) × (7.8–) 8.6–9.7 (–9.9) µm, with 4–6 transverse septa, and a single longitudinal septum. Dacampia cladoniicola shows similarity with the new taxon but differs in ascospore size. Detailed morphological, anatomical analysis and comparisons with more similar species confirm its novelty. In addition, a detailed worldwide key to the recognized species of Dacampia is provided to facilitate identification. Key words: Ascomycetes, Himalaya, Lichen parasites, Taxonomy.
39578	Beazley M.J., Rickman D.R., Ingram D.K., Boutton T.W. & Russ J. (2002): Natural abundances of carbon isotopes (14C, 13C) in lichens and calcium oxalate pruina: Implications for archaeological and paleoenvironmental studies. - Radiocarbon, 44(3): 675–683. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0033822200032124. Radiocarbon ages of calcium oxalate that occurs naturally on rock surfaces have been used recently in archaeological and paleoenvironmental studies. Oxalate rock coatings are found globally, with most appearing to be residues from epilithic lichens. To explore the source(s) of carbon used by these organisms for the production of oxalate we measured the natural abundances of 14C and 13C in 5 oxalate-producing lichen species, 3 growing on limestone in southwestern Texas and 2 on sandstone in Arkansas. We also examined the distribution of the isotopes between the calcium oxalate and lichen tissues by separating these components and measuring the 13C/C independently. The results demonstrate that the limestone species were slightly enriched in 14C, by 1.7%, relative to the sandstone species, which suggests that “dead” carbon from the limestone substrate does not constitute a significant source of carbon for the production of oxalate. The calcium oxalate produced by the lichens is also enriched in 13C by 6.5% compared to the lichen tissues, demonstrating that there is a large carbon isotope discrimination during oxalate biosynthesis. These results support the reliability of 14C ages of calcium oxalate rock coatings used for archaeological and paleoclimate studies.
39577	Liang F., Wang J., Hu L., Miao C., Si H., Chang R., Zhang L., Wang X., Wang L. & Zhao Z. (2026): Discovering the diversity of Acarosporaceae with pruina in China. - MycoKeys, 137: 175–197. https://doi.org/10.3897/mycokeys.137.201158. During our research on Acarosporaceae species, we found three new pruinose species, Sarcogyne bayingolinensis, S. parasitica, and S. yiliensis, and one new species to China, Acarospora iqbalii, based on a combination of morphological, chemical, and phylogenetic analysis. All three new species have IKI+ blue hymenial gel. Sarcogyne bayingolinensis is characterized by lobate thallus margin and no pruina surrounding the apothecial disc. Sarcogyne parasitica is characterized by areoles with deep fissures surrounding the apothecial disc and exhibits a parasitic lifestyle. Sarcogyne yiliensis is characterized by thin hymenium (50–60 μm), and tall subhymenium (50–80 μm). In addition, we discovered that A. tianshanica exhibits two chemical types (with or without gyrophoric acid), and we supplemented the molecular data of A. glaucocarpa from China. A key for the Acarosporaceae species with pruina reported in China is also provided. Key words: Lichenized fungi, new record, new species, phylogeny, taxonomy.
39576	Andrés N., Fernández-Fernández J.M., Palacios D., Schimmelpfennig I., Sancho L.G., Brynjólfsson S., Sæmundsson Þ., Farnsworth W.R., Tanarro L.M., Brito M., Santos-González J., González-Gutiérrez R.B. & ASTER Team (Aumaître G., Keddadouche K.) (2026): Late-Holocene evolution of a small Sub-Arctic glacier, Gljúfurárjökull (Tröllaskagi, northern Iceland). - Boreas, 55: 356–383. https://doi.org/10.1111/bor.70030. Gljúfurárjökull, located on the Tröllaskagi Peninsula in northern Iceland, is a small glacier approximately 3.8 km in length. This study analyses the glacier's evolution through a combination of methods including: (i) geomorphological mapping, (ii) Cosmic-Ray Exposure (CRE) dating, (iii) lichenometry and (iv) palaeoglacier reconstruction (volume, extent and Equilibrium Line Altitude (ELA)) for each identified ice-marginal position. The mean CRE ages obtained are as follows: Glacial Phase 1: no samples available for CRE dating; Glacial Phase 2: 2.6±0.5 ka (n = 2); Glacial Phase 3: 3.2±1.1 ka (n = 7); Glacial Phase 4: 2.5±0.2 ka (n = 2); Glacial Phase 5: between 2.1 ka and a few hundred years. Lichenometry results for surfaces older than 130 years show inconsistencies both internally and in comparison with CRE ages. However, for the most recent glacier margins, lichenometric dates are coherent and align with historical photographic evidence. Accordingly, the ages proposed for glacier marginal positions 6 and 7 are 1899/1904 CE and 1912/1917 CE, respectively, slightly predating position 8, which is documented in aerial photographs from 1946 CE. The millennial- to centennial-scale evolution of Gljúfurárjökull outlined in this study is consistent with the patterns observed in debris-free glaciers across Tröllaskagi, as well as in many Icelandic and Arctic glaciers. Notably, the Little Ice Age (LIA) advance at Gljúfurárjökull was less extensive than earlier Neoglacial advances, a trend common in the Sub-Arctic and Arctic regions. Since the end of the LIA, the glacier has experienced a general retreat, interrupted only by a brief advance during the 1980s–1990s—again mirroring broader Arctic glacial behaviour. Overall, this study underscores the high sensitivity of Gljúfurárjökull to climatic fluctuations during the Late Holocene. The application of CRE dating reveals that the glacier's evolution aligns closely with patterns observed in other Icelandic and Arctic glaciers.
39575	Santos-González J., Palacios D., González-Gutiérrez R., Fernández-Fernández J.M., Schimmelpfennig I., Peña-Pérez S., Tanarro L.M., Andrés N., Melón-Nava A., Farnsworth W.R., Brynjólfsson S., Sæmundsson Þ., Aumaitre G. & Keddadouche K. (2026): Holocene glacial–paraglacial–periglacial transitions of a sub-arctic glacial cirque, Fremri-Grasárdalur, Northern Iceland. - Permafrost and Periglacial Processes, 37(1): 78–106. https://doi.org/10.1002/ppp.70017. The aim of this work is to study a variety of glacial, periglacial and paraglacial features found in a small cirque, Fremri-Grasárdalur, in Tröllaskagi (Northern Iceland). We implement a multidisciplinary approach combining high-resolution geomorphological mapping, horizontal/vertical boulder displacement (from 1994 to 2019) and surface exposure dating of the abovementioned features by means of 36Cl cosmic-ray exposure (CRE), Schmidt Hammer (SHD) and lichenometry. CRE and SHD dating indicate that the cirque deglaciation took place during the Early Holocene, c. 10.7–9.1 ± 1.1 ka. During the Late Holocene, the cirque was occupied by three distinct small glaciers, with asynchronous behaviour. Two of them, developed polygenic ice-cored moraines over the course of at least three phases of glacial advances at 2.3–2.8 ± 0.4 ka, 1.8–1.4 ± 0.2 and 0.5 ± 0.1 ka, indicated by CRE and SHD dating of moraine boulders. While the third glacier in the cirque was also debris-free, through the Late Holocene, it transitioned into a debris-covered glacier. Following the Little Ice Age (LIA), all three glaciers exhibit retreat, with the recent decades exhibiting the most significant ice-mass loss. The ongoing demise of the cirque glaciers has led to a detachment of the debris-covered terrain from the remnant ice within the headwall—separated by a depression. The chronology inferred from the lichenometric data clearly shows the gradual retreat that formed this depression, between the late 19th century (~1890 ce) and the present day. One rock glacier was formed from the ice-cored moraines and talus rock glaciers are present at the foot of the walls. Boulder displacement tracking data show that subsidence prevails in all debris mantle landforms, reflecting degradation of the inner ice core, while horizontal displacement is limited. Keywords: deglaciation | ice- cored moraines | Iceland | paraglacial processes | rock glaciers.
39574	Menéndez-Duarte R., Ruiz-Fernández J., Rodríguez-Rodríguez L., Fernández-Fernández J.M., Rinterknecht V. & ASTER Team (2026): Multiproxy chronologies of the Hurd Rock Glacier (Livingston Island, South Shetland Islands, Maritime Antarctica): Between the late-stage stabilization and flow deceleration. - Permafrost and Periglacial Processes, 37(3): 535–550. https://doi.org/10.1002/ppp.70046. The Hurd Rock Glacier, located on Livingston Island (South Shetland Islands archipelago, Maritime Antarctica), is a tongue-shaped feature composed of angular boulders, displaying transverse ridges and furrows, and featuring lobate structures, which are more prominently developed in its frontal sector. At the top, an inactive glacier moraine overlies the rock glacier body. To understand the recent evolution of this system, a geochronological survey has been carried out through a combination of three dating techniques: (i) Cosmic-ray exposure (CRE) dating based on the 36Cl cosmonuclide applied to six boulders from the rock glacier frontal lobes; (ii) lichenometric dating, using Rhizocarpon geographicum species, of the upper glacier moraine; and (iii) 12 weathering measurements performed with a Schmidt hammer on the rock glacier lobes as well as on the glacier moraine. The results support an evolutionary model involving the following phases: (i) stabilization of the rock glacier front and/or a reduction in its kinematics around 3–4 ka; (ii) a progressive stabilization or slowing down of the rock glacier suggested by decreasing Schmidt-hammer exposure-age dating (SHD) values with increasing distance (and elevation) from the rock glacier front; and (iii) a very recent abandonment age of approximately 66 years for the upper moraine. These findings are consistent with the glacial and periglacial dynamics documented in this region of maritime Antarctica over the last few millennia. Keywords: 36Cl cosmic-ray exposure dating | Antarctica | Hurd Rock Glacier | lichenometry | Schmidt hammer | South Shetland Islands.
39573	Wang D., Schulz M., Kong R.S., Kranrod K., Kathol S., Cameron J., Bonar R., Trout L.M. & Sobze J.-M. (2026): Woodland caribou habitat restoration using lichen transplants: insights from a 24-year trial. - Restoration Ecology, 34: e70405 [10 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1111/rec.70405. Introduction: Lichens are crucial components of many ecosystems and serve as a key winter food source for caribou. In forest-harvested block reclamation, the focus tends to be on replanting trees and shrubs, often overlooking lichens. Objectives: This study examined the effect of different transplanting methods on the success of lichen transplant within harvested blocks. Methods: The treatments included control, hand transplant of entire thalli- “clumps,” and broadcast transplant of crushed lichen thalli. Each plot contained roughly equal amounts of Cladonia mitis Sandst., C. rangiferina, and C. uncialis based on their morphological characters. The covers of each transplanted species in 2000 were re-assessed in 2016 and 2024, and the covers of other lichens and plants were evaluated in 2016. Ecological site information and lichen dispersal were assessed in 2024. Results: The lichen covers within the broadcast-transplant and hand-transplant plots were significantly higher than in the control plots for each of the three lichen species in 2016 and 2024, but did not differ significantly from one another. Cladonia mitis Sandst. cover was positively correlated with the cover of non-target lichens but negatively associated with herb cover, while the cover of C. uncialis was positively associated with herb cover but negatively correlated with woody plant cover. Higher slopes negatively influenced the cover of C. mitis Sandst. and C. uncialis. Lichens did not appear to disperse significantly beyond 50 cm. Conclusions: Lichen transplants can be successful in the long term and utilized to restore caribou habitat impacted by tree harvesting.
39572	Singh K., Goswami R.P., Kumar A., Khati P.S. & Dhouni M. (2026): Pb (II) biosorption by Ramalina conduplicans biomass: Adsorption behavior and binding mechanisms. - Water Environment Research, 98(6:) e70449 [17 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1002/wer.70449. This study presents a rigorous technical evaluation of the sequestration of Lead (Pb (II)), a representative potentially toxic element (PTE), using the biomass of the lichen Ramalina conduplicans Vain. Surface characterization conducted via SEM–EDX, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) confirmed that the lichen biomass possesses a heterogeneous, porous, and amorphous structure. The surface is rich in carboxyl, hydroxyl, and amino functional groups, which undergo distinct morphological transformations following Pb (II) adsorption. Batch experiments achieved a maximum removal efficiency of 99.15% at pH 5 and a dosage of 83.33 g L−1. Kinetic modeling via nonlinear regression identified the pseudo-second-order model (R2 = 0.965) as the superior fit, while nonlinear Boyd and Weber–Morris models confirmed film diffusion as the primary rate-limiting step. Equilibrium data were evaluated using five nonlinear equilibrium models, with the Hill model providing the most accurate description (R2 = 0.936). The Hill coefficient (nH = 1.983) reveals positive cooperativity, indicating that the initial Pb (II) binding enhances the affinity of subsequent binding sites. While the Langmuir model (R2 = 0.894) estimated a maximum adsorption capacity (qmax) of 3.889 mg g−1, the superior fits of Hill, Redlich–Peterson, and Temkin models confirm a complex chemisorption mechanism occurring on a heterogeneous surface. Thermodynamic analysis further categorized the process as both spontaneous and endothermic. In conclusion, R. conduplicans biomass functions as a sustainable and cost-effective biosorbent for Pb (II) removal. While further optimization is required for industrial scaling, its cooperative binding mechanism and high removal efficiency highlight its potential as a green component in integrated PTE remediation strategies. Keywords: biosorption | lichen | mechanism | Pb (II) | R. conduplicans.
39571	Nguyen H.T., Badavath V.N., Maji S., Polimati H., Okello E., Bunce R.A., Thuan N.H., Salleh W.M.N.H.W. & Tatipamula V.B. (2026): Secondary metabolites from Lobaria pulmonaria (L.) Hoffm. target key metabolic enzymes: a novel strategy against multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. - RSC Advances, 16(10): 8960–8970. https://doi.org/10.1039/d5ra05774d. Numerous cultures have traditionally utilised the foliose lichen Lobaria pulmonaria (L.) Hoffm. (“Oak Lung” or “Lungs of Oak” in English; family: Lobariaceae) as a Tuberculosis (Tb) treatment. The present study aimed to scientifically validate the folkloric use of L. pulmonaria in treating Tb by investigating its antimycobacterial profile against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Ra (M.tb) and six other MDR-Tb isolates. The preliminary results obtained from XRMA revealed the notable inhibitory activity of LP and Fraction (F)-3 against M.tb, displaying IC50 values of 7.74 ± 0.27 and 6.26 ± 0.04 µg mL−1, respectively; followed by F2 (IC50 value: 38.82 ± 0.34 µg mL−1) and F5 (IC50 value: 46.69 ± 1.13 µg mL−1). The purification process of these bioactive fractions resulted in the identification of four known secondary metabolites: fukinanolide A, pinastric acid, stictic acid, and scrobiculin. Furthermore, the MICs from REMA showed that LP, stictic acid, and fukinanolide A have greater efficacy in controlling the growth of all six tested MDR-Tb isolates, compared to rifampicin. Notably, LP exhibited superior antimycobacterial activity against all six tested MDR strains as compared to all isolated compounds and rifampicin, possibly due to the synergistic effect of its metabolites. Furthermore, the IC50 values of LP, stictic acid, and fukinanolide A on THP-1 macrophages were considerably higher than MICs against the tested mycobacterial strains, suggesting that THP-1 remained unaffected at concentrations effective against M.tb and MDR-Tb isolates. The deliberated SI ratio values indicated that LP, stictic acid, and fukinanolide A were more active and less toxic to MDR-Tb strains than rifampicin. The molecular docking studies on 1EA1, 4V1F and 3VIU revealed that fukinanolide A and stictic acid bind effectively and selectively to 3VIU (β-ketoacyl reductase FabG4), thereby conferring their anti-TB potential. The outcomes provide a validation for the traditional use of L. pulmonaria in Tb treatment, with stictic acid and fukinanolide A identified as key biomarkers. Hence, L. pulmonaria presented as a promising source for the development of novel drugs targeting against MDR-Tb.
39570	Henckel L., Klein J., Eggers J., Bradter U., Fabritius H., Moor H. & Snäll T. (2026): Different stakeholder-based forest management scenarios facilitate balancing conservation and production in the bioeconomy. - Journal of Environmental Management, 404: 129234 [11 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.129234. Land-use policies founded on the expertise and interests of key stakeholders are likely the most implementable and politically long-lasting, assuming stakeholders share a broader, similar perception of the future. We investigated whether there is a difference in how eleven indicator species of conservation concern may be affected given policy and forestry scenarios of four key forest stakeholders for a 100 000 ha Swedish landscape over the coming 100 years. We used colonization-extinction models and species distribution models. Most species had stable or increasing metapopulation sizes or occurrence probabilities after 100 years under all except the most production-oriented scenario by private landowners. For six wood-decaying fungi, forests protected or managed with continuous cover forestry (CCF) drove the positive developments. By contrast, these species essentially disappeared from stands with even-aged clearcutting forestry. Regarding the 14.5% strict protection applied by the state-owned forest company increased the area occupied by these species. Protecting an even larger area and application of CCF in the scenarios of the (non-)governmental conservation organizations increased fungal metapopulation sizes even more. Four bird species showed stable or positive developments in all scenarios. The same held true for the epiphytic lichen Lobaria pulmonaria, because the management applied projected increasing host tree numbers and densities. Thus, protecting up to 20% of the productive forest, applying more alternative management regimes and less even-aged clearcutting rotation forestry has the potential to greatly increase the (meta)population size and improve the red-list status of all the focal species, and presumably also of other species of conservation concern. Keywords: Stakeholder; Scenario; Projection; Land-use; Conflict; Bird; Fungi; Lichen.
39569	Khuzwayo T.N., Ndhlovu N.T., Minibayeva F. & Beckett R.P. (2026): Combined light and chilling stresses increase non-photochemical quenching in afromontane lichens. - South African Journal of Botany, 194: 249–258. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sajb.2026.05.005. Lichens often grow in exposed habitats where they are subjected to multiple abiotic stresses in particular desiccation, high light and temperature extremes. When lichen photobionts absorb more light than they can use for photosynthesis, excess light energy can be dissipated as heat using non-photochemical quenching (NPQ). Light stress may be more harmful at lower temperatures, because while the amount of light absorbed by lichens may not change, rates of C fixation will be lower, and therefore there will be less demand for ATP and NADPH. These conditions can promote reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation. Furthermore, any stress that damages the photosynthetic apparatus will increase the risk of ROS formation, even under moderate light. The short-term effects of a combination of chilling and light stresses on NPQ in lichens have not been tested. We used chlorophyll fluorescence to study the effect on NPQ of a combination of moderate light stress (6 h at 100 μmol m–2 s–1) and chilling to 5 °C in five lichens from the Afromontane region of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Here we show that, while not photoinhibited, most species display increases in NPQ in response to light, and for some species the increases are greater at 5 °C than at 20 °C. The increases in NPQ appear to derive from xanthophyll-cycle based quenching. While general increases in NPQ are a common response to moderate light stress in lichens, when combined with a chilling stress additional xanthophyll-cycle based NPQ can be induced. Keywords: Lichens; Stress; Chilling; High light; Chlorophyll fluorescence; Non-photochemical quenching.
39568	Chen L., Li Y., Zhao M., Li Z., Wu L. & Lan S. (2026): Long-term grazing exclusion enhances cyanobacterial dominance and biocrust recovery but reduces bacterial diversity in a desert steppe of Inner Mongolia. - Agriculture, Ecosystems and Environment, 411: 110627 [12 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.agee.2026.110627. Biological soil crusts (biocrusts) are consortiums of cyanobacteria and other microorganisms that are critical for dryland ecosystem function, thereby stabilizing soils, enhancing nutrient cycling, and bolstering overall resilience. However, biocrusts have a low tolerance for grazing (especially trampling), making them highly susceptible to degradation, and their recovery following degradation remains a major challenge. Here, an assessment was conducted in a desert steppe of Inner Mongolia, China, to determine the long-term impact of fencing-mediated grazing exclusion on soil microbial communities and biocrust development. We examined bacterial community (16S rRNA and nifH gene) composition, abundance, diversity using high-throughput sequencing and quantitative PCR, and analysed key soil properties across three disturbance regimes: biocrust soils within 15-year grazing exclusion (IB), lightly trampling disturbed biocrust soils outside the enclosure (OB), and heavily trampling disturbed soils without biocrusts outside the enclosure (NB). Results showed that fencing significantly increased soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, chlorophyll-a, and electrical conductivity levels, while concurrently reducing bacterial alpha diversity. Despite this decline in diversity, gene absolute abundances of 16S rRNA and nifH increased markedly under grazing exclusion, indicating enhanced total microbial biomass and nitrogen fixation potential. In particular, cyanobacterial relative abundance increased from 2% in NB to 44% in IB plots, with dominant taxa including Microcoleus sp., Oscillatoria sp., and Nostoc sp. Spearman correlation analysis revealed strongly positive correlations between cyanobacterial composition and soil nutrient levels. These findings suggest that grazing exclusion effectively promotes cyanobacterial proliferation and biocrust development, albeit at the cost of reduced bacterial diversity. Our results underscore the central ecological role of dominant taxa (e.g., cyanobacteria) instead of microbial diversity in early-stage biocrust restoration and imply the potential of nature-based solutions, such as grazing exclusion and targeted cyanobacterial inoculation, to restore soil microbial function and accelerate biocrust recovery in degraded drylands. Keywords: Grazing exclusion; Biocrust development; Bacterial community; Cyanobacterial abundance.
39567	Grzesiak B., Janowski D., Rudawska M., Turowska A. & Węgrzyn M. (2026): Litter raking promotes habitat recovery in degraded lichen Scots pine forests (91T0): Evidence from macrofungal communities. - Forest Ecology and Management, 618: 123959 [12 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foreco.2026.123959. Central European lichen Scots pine forests (91T0) are valuable habitats protected within the European Union. The condition of these habitats is continuously declining across Europe; consequently, active restoration measures are being proposed and assessed. Previous research established forest thinning as a standard treatment that promotes ground lichen cover by reducing tree density and increasing light availability. One additional secondary treatment suggested is litter raking, aimed at removing fine organic debris and preventing ground lichens from being replaced by bryophytes. However, litter manipulation is known to impact fungal sporocarp expression and community composition. To determine whether the standard (thinning) and combined (thinning + raking) treatments differently affect macrofungal communities in 91T0 habitats, we established 24 monitoring plots in lichen-dominated (L) and degraded, bryophyte-dominated (B) 91T0 forest areas subjected to the two restoration regimes. We recorded macrofungi data over five years following treatment. In L sites, macrofungal communities were similar regardless of treatment. In B sites, communities differed between treatments; the combined treatment resulted in communities more similar to those in L sites. We suggest that these patterns in macrofungal diversity can serve as an indicator of habitat restoration success, and that the combined treatment is the more effective approach for restoring bryophyte-dominated lichen forests. Compared to other organisms, fungi are relatively overlooked in conservation research and legislation. However, our study highlights their potential as indicators of habitat condition and demonstrates how fungal monitoring can be incorporated into habitat assessment processes. Keywords: Fungal diversity; Habitat restoration; Habitat condition assesment; Ecological indicators; Natura 2000; Forest management.
39566	Marginson H., Martyniuk M.A.C. & Amyot M. (2026): Lichen biomonitoring of atmospheric rare earth elements, radionuclides (U, Th) and trace elements in the Canadian subarctic prior to REE mining. - Environmental Pollution, 405: 128507 [12 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envpol.2026.128507. Mining the rare earth elements (REEs), critical minerals important in technological applications, introduces concerns regarding the release of airborne REEs and associated radionuclides (U, Th) to surface environments. Despite expanding REE mining development, atmospheric REE sources and depositional pathways remain poorly characterized, particularly in northern regions lacking pre-disturbance baseline data. To establish a biomonitoring framework in the Canadian subarctic (Nunavik, Quebec), we analyzed 50 elements in two dominant fruticose taxa (Cladonia stellaris, Stereocaulon paschale) and soil substrate over six sampling years prior to REE mining. Mixed-effects models revealed significant spatial variability in elemental concentrations (∼40–90%), with species effects predominantly emerging among essential nutrients (Cu, K, Mn, Rb, S, Zn). Lichen-soil relationships indicated REE bioaccumulation was independent of underlying soil geochemistry and instead co-varied with radionuclides (U, Th) and lithogenic elements (Al, Fe, Ti, V, Co), characteristic of regional to long-range geogenic atmospheric transport, likely facilitated by wind erosion across the subarctic landscape. Near localized pollution sources, C. stellaris exhibited distance-based gradients in Ba and REEs within 1 km and captured As, Pb, Cd, and Cr enrichments 10-times background levels, indicating limited anthropogenic inputs consistent with transport emissions, waste incineration, and road dust resuspension. Washed samples retained the majority of REEs, suggesting accumulated REEs are strongly surface-bound or partially internalized, rather than loosely adsorbed. These results establish dominant subarctic lichens as effective atmospheric biomonitors, providing a pre-disturbance geogenic baseline and demonstrating their application to evaluating the potential mobilization of airborne contaminants, including REEs, U, and Th, surrounding future mining activities. Keywords: REE; Uranium; Thorium; Northern ecosystems; Bioaccumulation; Radionuclide; Lanthanide.
39565	Moskovchenko M. & Yurtaev A. (2026): Characterizing long-term boreal forest ecosystems dynamics in Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug (Western Siberia) using time series remote sensing data and deep learning methods . - Remote Sensing Applications: Society and Environment, 43: 102115 [23 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rsase.2026.102115. In this study, we modeled and analyzed the four-decade dynamics of five key forest attributes — dominant tree species, forest site productivity class, forest type based on ground vegetation, growing stock, and stand age — across the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug–Yugra (Western Siberia) for the period from 1984 to 2024. We used Landsat image time series processed with the LandTrendr algorithm, NDVI and NBR vegetation indices, topographic variables derived from the FABDEM digital elevation model (elevation, slope, aspect, curvature), high-resolution CHELSA climate data, and ESA WorldCover land cover data as predictors and forest inventory data as target variables. Forest attributes were mapped using SegFormer deep learning models. Classification models achieved top-1 accuracies of 74.2% for dominant tree species, 71.0% for site productivity class, and 69.6% for forest type, with corresponding top-2 accuracies of 88.9%, 88.2%, and 85.2%. Regression models yielded a mean absolute error of 25.2m3/ha for growing stock (R2=0.70) and 28.5 years for stand age (R2=0.69). The replacement of primary pine forests by secondary broadleaved forests emerged as the most significant trend in the dynamics of tree species composition. Over the 41-year period, the area of pine-dominated forests decreased from 34.7% to 25.8% of the total area of the region, while the area of broadleaved stands increased from 3.9% to 10.3%, indicating post-disturbance replacement of conifers by birch- and aspen-dominated forests. Concurrently we observed an increase in areas occupied by species typical of late successional stages — Siberian pine and larch — from 3.0% to 7.66% and from 0.03% to 1.24%, respectively. An assessment of forest site productivity dynamics indicated a general improvement in site quality, as evidenced by a reduction in the proportion of low-productivity (class V) forests from 39.3% to 24.3%, and an increase in the share of classes IV and III from 4.6% to 15.1% and from 2.0% to 5.6%, respectively. Mean growing stock increased from 90.7 to 104.9m3/ha, while mean stand age remained relatively stable (120–130 years). The most pronounced forest type change was the decline in lichen-dominated highland forest types in the northern taiga from 11.6% to 2.5%, driven by increased fire frequency and slow lichen recovery. These findings provide the first annual maps of boreal forest dynamics in Western Siberia characterizing the combined effects of climate and disturbance on forest structure and productivity and supporting regional forest and carbon management. Keywords: Boreal forests; Western Siberia; Landsat time series; Deep learning; Tree species composition; Forest site productivity; Growing stock; Geospatial modeling.
39564	Yiau J.Y.T., Ang C.W. & Santiago K.A.A. (2026): Metabolite profile analysis and antimicrobial properties of Usnea pectinata, Parmotrema tinctorum and Parmotrema crinitum in Bukit Larut, Perak, Malaysia: A case study. - The Microbe, 12: 100758 [5 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.microb.2026.100758. This study investigated the antimicrobial activities and metabolic profiles of the lichens Usnea pectinata, Parmotrema tinctorum and Parmotrema crinitum from Bukit Larut, Malaysia. Acetonic lichen extracts were prepared and screened against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Candida albicans using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion assay. Only U. pectinata extracts inhibited S. aureus, likely imparted by the antibacterial compound usnic acid. Liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LCMS) analysis, principal component analysis, partial least squares discriminant analysis and heatmap visualization, revealed distinct metabolic profiles between U. pectinata, P. crinitum and P. tinctorum, with U. pectinata having the highest number of detected lichen acids. Tandem LCMS identified depsides and depsidones in all three lichens, while dibenzofurans were unique to U. pectinata. Despite having antimicrobial lichen acids, both P. crinitum and P. tinctorum extracts showed no bioactivities, likely due to sub-inhibitory or sub-MIC concentrations of lichen acids present. Interestingly, this study also reported original findings on the antimicrobial properties and metabolite profile of P. crinitum. Keywords: Usnea pectinata; Parmotrema tinctorum; Parmotrema crinitum; Natural product; Antimicrobial.
39563	Hensel A. & Ramtvedt E.N. (2026): Differences in surface–subsurface temperature regimes and soil moisture between vegetation types across a boreal-alpine ecotone. - CATENA, 272: 110337 [11 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.catena.2026.110337. The boreal-alpine ecotone is distinguished by abrupt vegetation shifts along short altitudinal gradients, with climate warming driving treeline shifts upwards and northwards. In this study, we examine the hypothesis that distinct vegetation types present within this ecotone exhibit significant differences in surface–subsurface temperature regimes, as well as in soil moisture levels. This was done by measuring subsurface, surface and above-surface temperatures and soil moisture along a boreal-alpine ecotone during the growing season at Dagalifjell, southern Norway, for four different vegetation types: 1) pine-dominated coniferous forest, 2) mountain birch-dominated forest line, 3) shrubland and 4) lichen heath. Furthermore, the one-dimensional version of the Spatial Forest Hydrology (SpaFHy) model was employed to explore the potential of simulating soil moisture dynamics for typical boreal-alpine vegetation using openly available remote sensing data. The results revealed a decline in subsurface temperatures along the elevation-dependent vegetation gradient from coniferous forest (7.47 ± 0.66 °C) to lichen heath (5.56 ± 0.68 °C), with statistically significant differences (p
39562	Beaulieu C., Coops N.C., Morin-Bernard A., Côté S.D. & Achim A. (2026): Quantifying changes in annual lichen volume for woodland caribou in Newfoundland using Landsat time series. - International Journal of Applied Earth Observation and Geoinformation, 152: 105444 [17 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jag.2026.105444. Terrestrial and arboreal lichen are the primary winter food source of the threatened boreal ecotype of woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou). Despite its essential role, lichen biomass, a key factor of caribou habitat suitability, remains poorly quantified in forested landscapes, limiting effective habitat management and recovery planning. Our objective was to estimate lichen volume across two Newfoundland (Canada) boreal caribou herd ranges (Gros Morne and Gaff Topsails) using vegetation-specific models that integrate 1984–2022 Landsat Best Available Pixel composites with annual vegetation classifications from the National Terrestrial Ecosystem Monitoring System. Field data from 66 plots informed zero-inflated gamma models for coniferous forests, wetlands, barren land and shrublands. Predictors included spectral reflectance, vegetation indices, and vegetation type interactions. Model predictions closely matched observed lichen volume (pooled R2 = 0.77, RMSE = 8.58 dm3 m−2). Spatial outputs revealed widespread low lichen volume, with the highest volume in coniferous forests. Temporal trends showed a general increase in lichen volume since the early 1990s, with faster recovery across Gros Morne—potentially aided by the protected national park—compared to the more disturbed Gaff Topsails, where historical disturbances could have slowed early recovery. Estimated lichen biomass showed that patches reaching ∼3000 kg·ha−1—a level typical of stands preferentially used by caribou in winter—were rare but widely distributed across the landscape. These vegetation-stratified, long-term estimates of lichen volume provide a key tool for assessing habitat suitability and guiding conservation strategies aimed at supporting woodland caribou recovery across Newfoundland. Keywords: Lichen volume; Boreal caribou conservation; Landsat; Remote sensing; Boreal forest; Newfoundland.
39561	Rudski B.Z., Deering J., McKee M.D. & Reznikov N. (2026): Statistical analyses of feature orientation in 3D reticulate biological assemblies . - Materials Today Advances, 31: 100869 [12 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mtadv.2026.100869. Biological structure and function are closely linked, with functional clues often concealed within intricate three-dimensional details of the structure. Such details in branching, fibrous and porous biological assemblies can be investigated at multiple scales using volumetric imaging. However, 3D visualisations alone do not provide a quantitative assessment of specimen architecture. Directional quantification of structural attributes such as texture — reflecting orientation and co-alignment (anisotropy) of structural elements — is important for deciphering structure-function relationships, predicting mechanical behaviour, and optimising designs. We developed VectoRose — a new open-source package for visualisation and quantitative analysis of 3D vector data using spherical histograms and directional statistics — and we analyse here three case studies of biological assemblies (branching, fibrous and porous). The outputs produced by VectoRose provide quantitative insights into structure-function relationships in global and local architectural motifs. For branching structures, a comparison of the transport network between a bay leaf and a reindeer lichen quantifies the difference between planar and volume-filling dendritic patterns. Statistical analysis of the 3D fibrous assembly in the membrane of a bird and a gecko eggshell may reflect the evolutionary divergence in egg incubation strategies. Finally, an investigation of the porous trabecular bone pattern in the sheep femur offers a quantitative approach for studying structure-function relations governing bone biomechanical adaptation. With robust statistical descriptions of 3D anisotropy applicable to homologous or disparate structures alike, we foresee that quantitative texture analysis will confer reproducibility, together with subtlety and nuance, to structure-function studies in other domains of materials research. Keywords: Anisotropy; Directional statistics; Vector fields; Fibre assemblies; Reticulated assemblies; Orientation maps; Spherical statistics.
39560	Bélanger-Jumeau O.P., Ulkatcho First Nation & Harvey J.E. (2026): Recent burns provide some summer forage for threatened southern mountain caribou and may influence forage overlap with moose and bears . - Journal of Pyrogeography, 3(1): 100013 [13 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pyro.2026.100013. The Ulkatcho people of west-central British Columbia have co-existed with caribou since time immemorial. Moose in contrast became abundant in Ulkatcho territory during the early 1900's. Recent declines in caribou populations have been linked to increases in moose abundance and increased encounters between caribou and predators. Shifts in wildfire regimes may cause habitat alteration in these multiple prey – multiple predator ecosystems. The availability of forage after wildfire may therefore be important in understanding potential mechanisms of species interaction. We integrated Ulkatcho ecological knowledge, vegetation sampling, and Western dietary studies to characterize forage availability for caribou, moose, black bear and grizzly bear across a 90-year fire history. Principal Coordinates Analysis (PCoA) used forage availability from 133 vegetation plots and a literature review of forage selection to visualize overlap in forage availability between species. Binomial generalized linear models assessed the recovery of key wildlife forage over time since fire. Results found stand-replacing fire may provide some summer caribou forage, namely blueberry, willow, and aster, potentially explaining caribou summer selection for recent burns (
39559	Çevik U., Çelik N., Uzun K.K., Çelik A., Koz B., Özen S.A., Yeşilkanat C.M., Hacısalihoğlu A., Özkalaycı F. & Kaya S. (2026): Long-term decline of Chernobyl-derived 137Cs in mosses and lichens from the Eastern Black Sea region of Türkiye. - Journal of Environmental Radioactivity, 298: 108104 [11 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvrad.2026.108104. This study presents the third consecutive assessment of ¹³⁷Cs activity concentrations in the same 50 moss (7 species) and lichen (2 species) sampling points in Ordu province, Türkiye, one of the most heavily contaminated areas following the Chernobyl accident. Samples were collected from exactly the same locations used in the 1997 and 2007 studies and analyzed by high‑resolution gamma spectrometry. In 2025, detectable ¹³⁷Cs was found in 14 of 30 moss sites (47%) and 3 of 20 lichen sites (15%). For samples below the minimum detectable activity (MDA), a value of MDA/2 (0.93 Bq kg⁻¹) was substituted for lichens, while moss samples below the MDA were excluded from regression. The ecological half‑life (Teco) for the 2007–2025 period was 4.38 ± 1.05 years for mosses and 4.18 ± 0.61 years for lichens. For mosses, this is nearly identical to the 1997–2007 mean (4.4 years), while for lichens it decreased from 5.6 to 4.18 years, suggesting a slight acceleration in environmental removal. All Teco values remain far shorter than the physical half‑life of ¹³⁷Cs (30 years), confirming that environmental removal processes dominate over radioactive decay. Residual ¹³⁷Cs is concentrated in higher‑altitude areas, reflecting the original deposition pattern and slower removal in cooler, more humid microenvironments. Nearly 39 years after the accident, the radiological risk posed by residual trace levels is negligible. This 28‑year dataset provides one of the longest continuous records of ¹³⁷Cs in epiphytic bioindicators and serves as a valuable baseline for future contamination events.
39558	Chethan Prasad M., Pandi V., Asundi V.S., Pujari A. & Shivanna R. (2026): The role of lichens in biomonitoring of pollution, climate change and sea level rise in tropics: Insights from India and beyond . - Ecological Indicators, 189: 115204 [10 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolind.2026.115204.. Tropical coastal ecosystems are facing rapid environmental change resulting from global climate switch, sea level rise, change in weather and anthropogenic pressures. In this context, reliable ecological indicators are critical for assessing ecosystem response and susceptibility. Lichens with their extreme sensitivity to microclimatic-macroclimatic variation and atmospheric stress have been used as bioindicators in terrestrial ecosystems for a long time. Their ability as coastal climate change indicators, especially in tropical areas, remains insufficiently explored. This paper examines the present knowledge on coastal diversity of lichens in relation to changing precipitation patterns, increasing sea levels and salinity changes. Based on international case studies and literature inventories along Indian coastal areas, it emphasizes how particular lichen species react to climate induced coastal change and address issues using lichens to monitoring climate and sea level in data- scarce tropical areas. The findings highlight the need to incorporate lichen monitoring in coastal vulnerability assessment and restoration strategies immediately. Keywords: Lichen; Salt intrusion; Bioindicator; Climate change; Tropical regions.
39557	Kumar V. & Uniyal S.K. (2026): Lichen-insect associations and the first record of a moth mimicking the umbilicate lichen Lasallia pertusa (Umbilicariaceae) in the Western Himalaya, India. - Arthropod-Plant Interactions, 20: 55 [8 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11829-026-10266-1. The interactions between moths and lichens are diverse and have long fascinated ecologists and evolutionary biologists. Lichens play multiple roles in these associations, serving as a food source, shelter, a substrate for concealment, and a background that may facilitate camouflage or deceptive resemblance. Background matching with lichens is a well-known anti-predator strategy in Lepidoptera, where wing patterns often imitate lichen textures. However, most documented cases involve other lichens, whereas umbilicate lichens such as Lasallia have previously not been reported as models. Here, we present the first record of a moth exhibiting lichen-associated camouflage with Lasallia pertusa (Rass.) Llano, documented from Duggi locality, Chamba District, Himachal Pradesh, India. The moth’s forewing pattern, characterized by pustule-like markings and pale interspaces closely resembles the mottled thallus of L. pertusa, providing effective concealment on exposed rock surfaces. The present report contributes to the understanding of lichen-based crypsis and emphasizes the ecological significance of lichens in shaping predator–prey interactions in montane ecosystems. Keywords Camouflage · Crypsis · Lepidoptera · Himalaya.
39556	Pradhan T., Palit K., Chakraborty S., Rath S., Dash H.R. & Das S. (2026): Microbial bioindicators for multidimensional assessment of environmental alterations and ecosystem functioning. - World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology, 42: 376 [36 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11274-026-05097-4. Anthropogenic stressors leading to environmental pollution and subsequent climate change are emerging as a global concern. Consequently, the quality of the major environmental components, such as air, water, and soil is deteriorating, adversely affecting the overall ecosystem functioning. In this regard, bioindicators play a vital role in assessing environmental alterations and their implications for the functional integrity of ecosystems. Microbial bioindicators exhibit noticeable changes in physiological, behavioural and diversity patterns, in response to the changing environmental conditions. Among them, the microscopic indicators, including bacteria, fungi, protists, plankton and lichen show remarkable sensitivity towards environmental alterations due to their comparatively simple cellular processes. They respond to environmental disturbances in terms of distinctive characteristics, including bioluminescence, pathogenicity, pigmentation, altered diversity, photosynthetic responses and chemical degradation. Essentially, they serve as critical bioindicators of potentially polluted or unpolluted environments. Moreover, these microbial biomarkers not only signal environmental degradation but also provide early warning signals, further maintaining the ecosystem stability. Despite their reported application in environmental assessment, knowledge of microbial indicator mechanisms, ecological interactions, and emerging bioengineering approaches remains fragmented. Overall, microbial bioindicators serve as valuable monitoring tools, due to their ecological significance, indicator mechanisms, applications in biomonitoring, and recent advances in engineered biosensing approaches. Advances in molecular biology, microbial diversity assessment, and microbial bioengineering approaches exhibit significant potential for enhancing environmental biomonitoring. Keywords Microorganisms · Bioindicator · Pollution · Biomonitoring · Biomarker.
39555	Alves R.P., Weber B., Barbosa C.G.G., Clark A.T., Victoria F.C., de Albuquerque M.P. & Pereira A.B. (2026): Alterations of cryptogam communities over one decade of time on King George Island, Antarctica. - Polar Biology, 49: 79 [16 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00300-026-03524-8. Antarctica’s ice-free areas are mainly colonized by cryptogamic communities, which are known to be sensitive indicators of environmental change. Despite numerous monitoring-related studies, published research on medium-term cryptogam cover changes is limited. With this study, we aimed to investigate compositional and structural changes in cryptogamic communities over a decade near the Polish Arctowski Antarctic Station. Here, a phytosociological approach was used to assess species diversity, coverage, and ecological relevance during the 2012–2013 field campaign, with results being compared to a previously published survey conducted in 2003–2004. Climatic trends were assessed to identify potential environmental drivers for the observed vegetation changes. Results revealed lower moss richness and lower ecological relevance based on coverage and frequency, particularly among cushion-forming taxa such as Andreaea gainii and Syntrichia princeps. In contrast, lichen richness increased, with species such as Usnea aurantiacoatra increasing in ecological importance, while U. antarctica declined. These species-specific trends suggest that traits such as moisture tolerance, growth form, and substrate preference influence the capacity of cryptogams to respond to changing conditions. Climatic data indicate no significant changes in temperature, relative humidity, or precipitation (2003–2013), while the long-term record showed weak trends (1990–2020). Therefore, medium-term climatic data did not support a direct attribution of the observed vegetation changes to climate variables. These findings demonstrate that successional processes and local site conditions can be associated with measurable ecological restructuring in Antarctic vegetation. By providing high-resolution floristic and ecological data, this study establishes a baseline for future monitoring, using cryptogams as indicators of environmental change. Keywords Phytosociology · Bryophytes · Lichens · Grass · Cryptogams.
39554	Kalın Ş.N. (2026): Evernic and diffractaic acids: Novel regulators of intracellular redox homeostasis in the MCF-7 cell line. - Molecular Biology Reports, 53: 1182 [13 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11033-026-12380-y. Background: Oxidative stress plays a critical role in tumor development and cancer cell survival; however, the effects of lichen secondary metabolites on antioxidant defense systems are not yet fully understood. In our previous study, we demonstrated that the lichen secondary metabolites evernic acid (EA) and diffractaic acid (DA) exert significant cytotoxic and anti-migratory effects in MCF-7 breast cancer cells through inhibition of thioredoxin reductase 1 (TrxR1), a key oxidoreductase enzyme involved in maintaining cellular redox homeostasis and frequently upregulated in cancer cells. In this study, the effects of EA and DA on oxidative stress and the antioxidant system in MCF-7 cells were investigated comprehensively for the first time. Methods and Results: Intracellular glutathione (GSH), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured in MCF-7 cells, together with antioxidant enzyme activities and gene/protein expression. Both EA and DA disrupted redox homeostasis by decreasing GSH and increasing ROS. EA also elevated MDA levels and caused a significant redox imbalance by suppressing the activity of SOD, CAT, GR, GPX, and GST. In contrast, DA selectively inhibited SOD, CAT, and GST activity, exhibiting more balanced redox modulation while promoting apoptosis. Conclusions: EA triggered ferroptosis-associated molecular alterations by disrupting the GSH-GPX4 axis. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that EA and DA act as redox-modulating molecules that induce cytotoxicity in MCF-7 cells through distinct mechanisms, highlighting the therapeutic potential of lichen secondary metabolites in breast cancer. Keywords Lichen secondary metabolites · Glutathione system · Oxidative stress · Ferroptosis · Anticancer.
39553	Singh P. (2026): Resolving axonomic ambiguity in the Graphidaceae: Phaeographina torquescens and Sarcographina subtorquescens are synonyms of Sarcographa glyphiza. - Phytotaxa, 767(2) 197–203. https://doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.767.2.8. The taxonomic identity of the type material of Phaeographina torquescens (basionym: Glyphis torquescens) and Sarcographina subtorquescens (basionym: Glyphis subtorquescens) housed at the Finnish Museum of Natural History, Helsinki (H-NYL) is critically re-evaluated and found to be conspecific with Sarcographa glyphiza. Henceforth, both taxa are synonymized under S. glyphiza. This taxonomic revision is based on a thorough examination of all available type specimens, including detailed morphological, anatomical, and chemical analyses, as well as distributional data. The findings help resolve long-standing nomenclatural ambiguities within the Graphidaceae and contribute to a more precise understanding of species delimitation and synonymy in the group. Key words: Asia, China, Glyphis, India, Lichen-forming fungi, Malaysia, Phaeographina, Sarcographina, Sarcographa, Sri Lanka, Synonym.
39552	Maglonzo J.R.M., Ohmura Y. & dela Cruz T.E.E. (2026): A taxonomic report of Usnea from Quezon, Luzon Island, Philippines. - Acta Manilana, 74: 17–28. https://doi.org/10.53603/actamanil.74.2026.fsdh3971. The fruticose lichen Usnea is a globally distributed group. However, its diversity in many parts of the Philippine archipelago remains poorly documented. This study reports a taxonomic account of Usnea from two localities of Quezon Province, Luzon Island, Philippines: Mt. Banahaw de Tayabas and Brgy. Sitio Pandak, Lucban. Six specimens were collected and examined based on morphological, anatomical, and chemical characters. Major lichen substances were identified by thin-layer chromatography. Four taxa were then recognized: U. himalayana, U. cf. nidifica, U. cf. baileyi, and one undetermined Usnea species. U. himalayana is reported for the first time in Luzon Island while collections from Lucban represent the lowest elevational record of Usnea in the Philippines (~411 masl). This extends the previously cited lower limit of ~600 masl for Usnea. These findings highlight significant gaps in regional sampling and suggest that the diversity and elevational range of Usnea in the Philippines are underestimated. Keywords: fruticose lichen; lichen substance; Parmeliaceae; thallus morphology; TLC.
39551	Chiva S., Pazos T., Montero-Pau J., Moya P., Garrido-Benavent I., Barreno E. & Muggia L. (2026): Symbiotic versatility in action: Trebouxia diversity expands the niche of the lichen Xanthoria parietina. - Environmental Microbiology, 28(7): e70379 [19 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1111/1462-2920.70379. Xanthoria parietina is one of the most widespread and ecologically versatile lichens, yet the diversity of its fungal and algal symbionts and their contribution to its broad ecological niche remain poorly understood. Genetic diversity and phylogenies of both lichen symbionts were inferred from nrITS data. Mycobiont–phycobiont interaction networks were constructed, and ecological niches of associated Trebouxia species were modelled using 19 bioclimatic variables. Phylogenetic analyses revealed high diversity within Xanthoria parietina and clarified the placement of poorly studied species within the genus Xanthoria (e.g., X. monofoliosa and X. aureola s. lat.), and revealed a novel lineage (Xanthoria sp. ‘hydra’). All the photobionts belonged to Trebouxia clade A; comprising nine Trebouxia species-level lineages, including the newineage Trebouxia sp. A56. Trebouxia decolorans (A33) was the most frequent photobiont and exhibited the broadest climatic niche, whereas T. solaris (A35) and T. tabarcae (A48) occupied narrower iches. Species-distribution models predicted widespread suitability for T. decolorans across Europe and coastal-Mediterranean suitability for T. tabarcae. Xanthoria parietina displays remarkable symbiont flexibility in associating with multiple Trebouxia lineages within clade A. This flexibility likely broadens its ecological niche and enhances its ability to thrive across heterogeneous Mediterranean environments. Keywords: ecology | interaction networks | Mediterranean | phylogeny | symbiosis | Trebouxia.
39550	Legnaro Diamanti M., Cangelmi G., De Benedictis L.L.M., Balducci L., Benesperi R., Bianchi E., Carli E., Ceci A., Chianucci F., Ciaschetti G., De Simone L., De Toma A., Di Pietro F., Fanfarillo E., Fiaschi T., Francioni M., Girometta C.E., Leonardi M., Loppi S., Napoleone F., Pandeli G., Perini C., Ravera S., Salerni E., Trentanovi G., Tosi S., Venanzoni R. & Burrascano S. (2026): Forest structure and multi-taxonomic diversity in Apennine beech forests subjected to conservation-oriented interventions. - Plant Biosystems, 160: 224 [12 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1007/s44473-026-00238-x. European forests have a long history of management, which has often homogenized stand structure, impacting the diversity of forest biological communities. In the last decades, the pursuit of forest multifunctionality has put emphasis on the links between forest management, structure and biodiversity. However, the lack of integrated data on stand structure and multi-taxon biodiversity data has hampered the understanding of how changes in forest structure affect the composition of different taxonomic groups. In this data paper, we provide a dataset including forest structure and multi-taxon species diversity data in beech-dominated forests subjected to conservation-oriented forest management. We sampled standing trees, lying deadwood, as well as vascular flora, epiphytic lichens, and saproxylic fungi, in 19 sampling units within the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park (central Italy). The dataset provides information on: (i) the occurrence and abundance of the three taxonomic groups; (ii) tree inventory data (species, diameter at breast height, height, vitality, dominance, and origin); (iii) size, type and decay class of lying deadwood. This dataset can inform studies on biodiversity and management effects on forest ecosystems. Keywords: Beech forest; Protected areas; Vascular plants; Epiphytic lichens; Saproxylic fungi; Multi-taxon; Biodiversity.
39549	Isaksson R., Frisch A., Westberg M., Vicente R. & Thor G. (2026): Stigmidium sapmi sp. nov. and other lichen-associated fungi of Padjelanta National Park, Sweden. - Graphis Scripta, 38(3): 18–43. https://nhm2.uio.no/botanisk/lav/Graphis/38_3/GS_38_18.pdf. We report 60 strictly or facultatively lichenicolous fungi including lichenicolous lichens as new to Padjelanta National Park. Among these, 20 species are new to Sweden, including one described new to science, one new to Europe and five new to Fennoscandia. The material was collected in Padjelanta National Park in 2020, 2022 and 2024. Stigmidium sapmi Isaksson & R.Vicente is described as new to science. The other species that are new to Sweden are: Arthonia epipolytropa, Chaetopyrena penicillata, Endococcus collematis, Epibryon solorinae, Lichenochora constrictella, Nesolechia cetrariicola, Opegrapha buelliae, O. geographicola, Polycoccum islandicum, Protothelenella santessonii, Roselliniopsis gelidaria, Sphaerellothecium epilecanora, Sphaeropezia figulina, Stigmidium schaereri, Taeniolella diederichiana, Talpapellis solorinae, Tremella cetrariae, Trichonectriella lichenicola, and Xenonectriella lutescens. We further report some of the species found in Lule lappmark from other regions: Arthonia epipolytropa as new to Ångermanland, Endococcus collematis as new to Gotland and Lycksele lappmark, Epibryon solorinae as new to Jämtland, Rhagadostoma brevisporum and Taeniolella diederichiana as new to Torne lappmark, Sphaerellothecium cladoniae as new to Öland and Tremella cetrariae as new to Uppland. Protopannaria is a new host genus for Xenonectriella lutescens, Solorina saccata a new host species for Trichonectriella lichenicola, Tetramelas geophilus a new host species for Opegrapha buelliae and Solorina bispora a new host species for Talpapellis solorinae. Short descriptions are provided for species new to Sweden.
39548	Pykälä J. (2026): Additions to the lichen flora of Finland. XII. - Graphis Scripta, 38(3): 44–58. https://nhm2.uio.no/botanisk/lav/Graphis/38_3/GS_38_44.pdf. Eighteen lichen species are reported as being new to Finland, including two species new to Europe (E) and six species new to Fennoscandia (Fe): Bacidina modesta, Bacidina omnicola (Fe), Bacidina populnea, Bilimbia fuscoviridis, Candelariella pulchella, Cladonia krogiana, Japewia gyrophorica, Lecania madida, Lecidella drakensis (E), Leprocaulon nicholsiae (Fe), Parvoplaca nigroblastidiata, Peltigera alkalicola (E), P. appalachiensis, P. jonii, Psoroglaena neglecta (Fe), Sarcogyne canadensis (Fe), Sarcogyne nivea (Fe) and Toniniopsis pruinosa (Fe). DNA barcode (ITS) sequences are provided for all species.
39547	Tarasova V., Ahti T. & Myllys L. (2026): Bryostigma biatoricola and Myrionora albidula new to Finland. - Graphis Scripta, 38(3): 59–63. https://nhm2.uio.no/botanisk/lav/Graphis/38_3/GS_38_59.pdf. Four records of the lichenicolous Bryostigma biatoricola and one record of Myrionora albidula are reported for the first time from Finland, from the biogeographical province Pohjois-Karjala (Karelia borealis).
39546	Vicente R., Isaksson R., Jonsson F., Svensson M. & Westberg M. (2026): Additions to the flora of lichenicolous fungi of Sweden III, with the description of a new Epithamnolia species. - Graphis Scripta, 38(3): 64–85. https://nhm2.uio.no/botanisk/lav/Graphis/38_3/GS_38_64.pdf. We report 23 lichenicolous fungi as new to Sweden, of which 17 are also new to Fennoscandia. Additionally, Actinocladium rhodosporum is recorded for the first time as lichenicolous in Sweden. The taxa treated include Acremonium vanderkolkii, Actinocladium rhodosporum, Arthonia colombiana, A. epiparmelia, Buelliella physciicola, Burgoa moriformis, Cercidospora lobothalliae, Cladophialophora cladoniae, C. parmeliae, Clypeococcum cetrariae, Endococcus ramalinarius, Feltgeniomyces luxemburgensis, Lawalreea burgaziana, Lichenopuccinia poeltii, Llanorella ramalinae, Milospium lacoizquetae, Pronectria echinulata, P. scrobiculatae, P. walkerorum, Psammina stipitata, Pyrenochaeta xanthoriae, Scutula curvispora, Tremella imshaugiae and Xenonectriella septemseptata. We also describe a new species, Epithamnolia lumbricispora growing on Ochrolechia microstictoides. Megalaria pulverea and Pertusaria coccodes are reported as new hosts for Actinocladium rhodosporum, Melanelixia sp. for Cladophialophora parmeliae, Scoliciosporum sp. for Burgoa moriformis, and Evernia prunastri for Llanorella ramalinae. Microconidia associated with conidiomata from Lichenopuccinia poeltii are reported, and an asexual state associated with X. septemseptata is briefly described.
39545	Zhurbenko M.P. & Brackel W. v. (2026): Endococcus hygrophilus Arnold new to Svalbard and the Arctic. - Graphis Scripta, 38(3): 86–90. https://nhm2.uio.no/botanisk/lav/Graphis/38_3/GS_38_86.pdf. Endococcus hygrophilus is reported from Svalbard, a detailed description of the species based on this find and on the lectotype is given and it is proposed to return it to the genus Endococcus.
39544	Haldeman M., Miranda-González R. & McCune B. (2026): Pyrenula cascadensis, a new species of non-lichenized Pyrenula (Pyrenulaceae) from northwestern North America. - Bryologist , 129(2): 120–129. https://doi.org/10.1639/0007-2745-129.2.120. We describe Pyrenula cascadensis as a new species from Washington, U.S.A. It is similar to other Pyrenula from the Pacific Northwest in having 3-distoseptate, faintly pale-brown spores. However, it lacks a lichenized thallus and occurs in montane to subalpine forests. We compare the new species with other Pyrenula species and other similar genera. We present a phylogeny of Pyrenulaceae delimiting at least five independent clades in which almost all species are known to occur partially or exclusively in extratropical areas. The phylogeny shows P. cascadensis forms an isolated clade that is close to, but separate from, a well-supported clade that contains the North American and European species P. coryli, P. laevigata and P. occidentalis. This suggests the possibility of an independent loss of lichenization between P. cascadensis and P. coryli. Keywords: Cascade Mountains, lichen systematics, Mycoglaena, Naetrocymbe, pyrenocarpous fungi, Washington.
39543	Driscoll K.E., Lendemer J.C., Clayden S.R. & Harris R.C. (2026): Minutophoma buelliarum (Ascomycota, subphylum Pezizomycotina), a new lichenicolous fungus widespread on corticolous, norstictic acid-producing Buellia in eastern North America. - Bryologist , 129(2): 130–139. https://doi.org/10.1639/0007-2745-129.2.130. The species historically referred to as Buellia stillingiana, and more recently proposed to be a synonym of B. erubescens, is very common and widespread in eastern North America. While studying material to determine the application of these names, we repeatedly encountered a lichenicolous coelomycete parasitizing thalli of this lichen. The lichenicolous fungus appears to belong to the genus Minutophoma, differing from M. chrysophthalmae in its larger pycnidia, larger conidia, and occurrence on Buellia rather than Chrysothrix. It is here described as M. buelliarum. After studying more than one thousand specimens of Buellia stillingiana, M. buelliarum was found, albeit rarely, throughout the range of this lichen from the island of Newfoundland in eastern Canada south throughout the Coastal Plain and west to the edge of the Great Plains. It was also found to occur on other morphologically similar sympatric Buellia species producing norstictic acid: B. curtisii, B. imshaugiana, and an unidentified Buellia species similar to B. stillingiana. Keywords: Biodiversity, BiotaNB, biotic interactions, Buellia stillingiana, B. curtisii, B. imshaugiana, B. erubescens, host-parasite range dynamics, parasite, taxonomy.
39542	Lendemer J.C. (2026): Recent literature on lichens—281. - Bryologist , 129(2): 169–177. https://doi.org/10.1639/0007-2745-129.2.169. bibliography
39541	Poengsungnoen V., Buaruang K., Polyiam W., Sangvichien E., Boonpragob K., Lumbsch H.T. & Vongshewarat K. (2026): Two new species and a new record of crustose lichens from Thailand. - Bryologist , 129(2): 101–105. https://doi.org/10.1639/0007-2745-129.2.101. Two new lichen species, Astrochapsa pruinosa and Ramonia sirindhorniana, are described from Thailand. Astrochapsa pruinosa has angular-rounded to elongate ascomata, 8-spored asci, and muriform ascospores (30–45 × 12–15 µm), differing from the similar A. pseudophlyctis, which has predominantly rounded ascomata and 1–6-spored asci. Ramonia sirindhorniana is characterized by simple, ellipsoid ascospores (6–8 × 3–4 µm) and 16–32-spored asci. It is distinguished from R. kandleri by its smaller ascospores and ascomata and fewer ascospores per ascus. Acanthothecis tetraphora is reported as a new record for Asia. Keywords: Asia, diversity, taxonomy, tropical lichens.
39540	Morgan G., Adams P., Robison A., St. Clair L.L. & Leavitt S.D. (2026): Student scientists, bulk sampling and DNA metabarcoding demonstrate improved species detectability in lichen diversity inventories. - Bryologist , 129(2): 106–119. https://doi.org/10.1639/0007-2745-129.2.106. Lichens are present in nearly all terrestrial ecosystems. They often represent a substantial portion of the community-level species diversity, play important ecological roles, and are commonly used to monitor ecological health. Consistently and accurately detecting and representing lichen diversity remains challenging, even when standardized surveys are conducted by experts. In fact, recent work suggests that lichen detectability is unexpectedly low, even in some of the best-case scenarios, with striking differences among independent sampling efforts. DNA metabarcoding of bulk environmental samples holds promise for enhanced detectability of species in lichen inventory surveys. Here, we compare consistency in characterizing lichen community species diversity based on the independent bulk sampling efforts conducted by trained student scientists using high-throughput DNA sequencing. Each student was instructed to collect small lichen fragments representing the range of perceived lichen diversity in a narrow limestone canyon on the eastern edge of the Great Basin, Utah County, Utah. Metagenomic DNA was extracted from the independent bulk samples, and lichen-forming fungal diversity was inferred using Illumina high-throughput sequencing of ITS2 amplicons. Illumina short reads were processed using FROGS, a pipeline for inferring operational taxonomic units, and taxonomic assignments were made with a customized pipeline. Results of the metagenomic sampling approach were compared to a traditional, student-led lichen inventory completed in the early 1990s. The bulk sampling-metagenomic inventory captured three times the diversity documented in the traditional, morphology-based survey (190 species vs. 63). We observed high overlap in capturing species-level diversity between the two bulk sampling efforts, with nearly 70% similarity. Only limited overlap in species was observed between the composite bulk sampling lichen inventory and the decades-old, morphology-based inventory. Additionally, ca. one-third of the species-level lineages inferred from metagenomic reads could not be assigned to a known species with confidence. We discuss the implications of our results and the efficacy of using bulk sampling and metagenomic DNA barcoding as a protocol for conducting lichen biodiversity surveys. Keywords: Crustose lichens, dark taxa, detectability, high-throughput sequencing, next-generation biomonitoring, undergraduate research, Wasatch Front.
39539	Wang X., Wang Y., Leavitt S.D., Zhu W. & Zhao X. (2026): Phylogeny and taxonomy of Willeya (Verrucariales, Verrucariaceae), including two new species and two newly recorded species from China. - MycoKeys, 137: 21–42. https://doi.org/10.3897/mycokeys.137.197566. Willeya Müll. Arg. (Verrucariaceae, Eurotiomycetes, Ascomycota) is a genus of crustose lichen-forming fungi. To date, no comprehensive taxonomic revision of Willeya in China has been conducted. In this study, we performed morphological examinations, multi-gene phylogenetic analyses based on nrITS, mtSSU, and nuLSU sequences and thin-layer chromatography on specimens collected from four Chinese provinces. As a result, two new species, Willeya bispora Xin Yi Wang & X. Zhao, W. guizhouensis Xin Yi Wang & X. Zhao and two new records, W. japonica (B. de Lesd) Gueidan and W. protrudens Gueidan are reported from China. Detailed descriptions, illustrations, and comparisons with closely related taxa are provided for all four species. In addition, we discuss all species of Willeya previously reported from China. A dichotomous key for the identification of all known Willeya species worldwide is also presented. Key words: Biodiversity, crustose lichens, molecular systematics, morphology.
39538	Li X., Chen L., Liu W., Aptroot A. & Dou M. (2026): Three new species of Pyrenula (Ascomycota, Pyrenulales, Pyrenulaceae) from China. - Journal of Fungi, 12(7): 529 [19 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/jof12070529. The lichenized fungal genus Pyrenula Ach. is one of the most common groups of crustose lichens in tropical and subtropical regions, but there has been little research on this genus in China. Based on an integrative taxonomic method including morphological, chemical characters, and three-locus phylogenetic analyses, we found three new Pyrenula species from southern China. Pyrenula falcatispora sp. nov. is characterized by multiseptate (7–9-septate), falciform ascospores with pointed ends, and the presence of pseudocyphellae; Pyrenula rectiloculata sp. nov. is characterized by elongate-fusiform ascospores (5–7(–8)-septate) with pointed ends and rectangular lumina, the absence of pseudocyphellae, and the inspersed hamathecium; Pyrenula jinghongensis sp. nov. is unique in having 2-spored asci, large and muriform ascospores with 14–19 transverse septa. Phylogenetic analyses confirmed that these three species form independent lineages within the genus. Detailed descriptions, illustrations, and comparisons with morphologically similar taxa are provided. Notably, taxa with ascospores more than four times as long as wide or 2-spored asci were uncommon within the genus Pyrenula. This is the first report of transversely septate Pyrenula taxa with ascospores more than four times as long as wide in China. Meanwhile, a key for the Pyrenula species reported in China is provided. Keywords: lichenized fungi; morphology; phylogeny; taxonomy.
39537	España-Puccini P., Muñoz-Acevedo A., Llanos-López N.A., Stadler M., Ganoza-Yupanqui M.L., Burgos-Zelada P.S. & Martínez-Habibe M.C. (2026): Chemo-diversity and secondary metabolite content in corticolous crustose lichens (fam. Arthoniaceae, Graphidaceae, Pyrenulaceae) from remnants of Colombian ropical dry forests. - Journal of Fungi, 12(7): 526 [25 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/jof12070526. Colombia ranks third among South American countries in terms of fungal diversity (including lichens); however, the lichen diversity of tropical dry forest ecosystems, particularly those in the Caribbean region, remains relatively understudied. The typical lichens found in tropical dry forest are crustose/corticolous microlichens (adapted to the xerophytic environments), which produce certain secondary metabolites that act as protective agents against ultraviolet radiation/decomposition/depredators; nonetheless, secondary metabolites of most of these lichens have not yet been described. This study focused on the compositional analysis and the extrolite content of seven lichens: Cryptothecia sp., Cryptothecia scripta, Graphis dendrogramma, Leucodecton occultum, Helminthocarpon leprevostii, Pyrenula ochraceoflava, and Allographa seminuda, using thin-layer chromatography, high-performance liquid chromatography–diode array detector, liquid chromatography–electrospray–mass spectrometry and/or liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. The main findings were: (i) two Cryptothecia spp. contained 2′-O-methylperlatolic acid (97%) or ovoic/gyrophoric acids (67%/28%); (ii) two specimens of G. dendrogramma had stictic/norstictic acids (33–60%/40%); (iii) three samples of L. occultum were characterized by norstictic acid (42–82%); (iv) schizopeltic/3-O-methylschizopeltic acids (58%/32%) were found in one specimen of H. leprevostii; (v) one sample of P. ochraceoflava was represented by unidentified xanthone-type metabolite/7-chloroemodin/ (26%/24%); and, (vi) the extrolite content in one specimen of A. seminuda was negligible. Finally, 10 of the 11 lichen specimens studied from the Department of Atlántico within Colombia contained certain secondary metabolites that likely reflect the common types of extrolites, namely, di-/tri-depsides, depsidones, dibenzofurans, and chlorinated anthraquinones/xanthones, which could be hypothetically related to the evolutionary patterns of this type of organism. Keywords: anthraquinones/xanthones; Caribbean region; chemotaxonomy; depsides; depsidones; dibenzofurans; lichen substances.
39536	Engelberts G., Dalhuisen F.D., Bodde W. & Sparrius L.B. (2026): Urban lichenometry: growth of Circinaria contorta on city sidewalks. - Lindbergia, 2026(1): e028935 [9 p.]. https://doi.org/10.25227/linbg.028935. Lichenometry, a dating method that relies on the largest lichen to infer the age of a surface, is widely used due to its simplicity and affordability. However, several of the processes underlying the basic assumptions are assumed to be constant, while in reality they are climate-dependent, particularly those concerning colonisation, mortality, and thallus growth rates. This limits the comparability of lichenometric studies in different climates. Therefore, a better understanding of the environmental influence on lichen growth is required. Urban environments, with many homogeneous dated surfaces, can offer a unique opportunity to study lichen growth. To get a better understanding of urban lichen growth patterns, we investigated the largest Circinaria contorta thalli on sidewalks of varying ages in three temperate cities. Results suggest a sigmoidal growth pattern, reaching a peak radial growth rate of 1.68 mm year–1, similar to other temperate crustose lichens. Variation within and between cities is substantial and only partially explained by shade and sidewalk area. However, a rough estimation of concrete pavement age can be inferred from the largest thallus diameter. Keywords: concrete, crustose lichens, pavement, thallus growth, urban ecology.
39535	Neumann P., von Brackel W. & Dolnik Ch. (2026): Neu- und Wiederfunde der schleswigholsteinischen Flechtenflora, Folge 3. - Herzogia, 39: 5–23. https://doi.org/10.13158/heia.39.1.2026.5. New records and confirmations to the lichen flora of Schleswig-Holstein, series 3. Current records of a total of 35 lichens and lichenicolous fungi from Schleswig-Holstein are presented. Of these, 33 species are reported for the first time for Schleswig-Holstein. The lichens Reichlingia anombrophila and Sporodophoron cretaceum as well as the lichenicolous fungi Acremonium vanderkolkii, Gyalectiphila pluriseptata, Talpapellis pachnolepiae, Trimmatostroma roccellacearum and Weddellomyces pachyosporicola are new for Germany. Endophragmiella boothii is listed for the first time in Germany as facultatively lichenicolous. Key words: first record, lichens, lichenicolous fungi.
39534	Liang F.-H., Wang J.-X., Zhang Y.-M. & Hu L. (2026): Four new records of Acarosporaceae from China. - Herzogia, 39: 24–36. https://doi.org/10.13158/heia.39.1.2026.24. In this study, four species (Acarospora insolata, A. versicolor, Sarcogyne paradoxa, and S. algoviae) were collected from northwestern China and based on a combination of morphological and phylogenetic studies reported as new records to China. Descriptions of morphological characteristics, chemistry, molecular sequences (ITS, for some species also nuLSU and mtSSU), ecology and distribution are provided for all newly recorded species. Key words: Crustose lichen, Acarospora, Sarcogyne, taxonomy.
39533	Wang X., Jiang M.-Y., Zhang X.-H., Xu Y.-K. & Zhang L.-L. (2026): Four species of lecanoroid lichens new to China. - Herzogia, 39: 37–48. https://doi.org/10.13158/heia.39.1.2026.37. Four species – Flavonora inversa, Lecanora argentata, L. barkmaniana, and L. pulverulenta – are reported as new records to China based on an integrated taxonomic approach combining morphological characteristics, chemical analyses, and phylogenetic studies. Detailed descriptions of morphological, chemical, and molecular characteristics, as well as illustrations of each species, are provided. Key words: crustose lichen, lichenized fungi, taxonomy, Lecanoraceae.
39532	Siringamram S., Poengsungnoen V., Buaruang K., Boonpragob K., Lumbsch H.T. & Polyiam W. (2026): Three new records of lirellate crustose lichenized fungi (Arthoniales) in Thailand. - Herzogia, 39: 49–55. https://doi.org/10.13158/heia.39.1.2026.49. Three new records of lirellate crustose lichenized fungi within the order Arthoniales were reported from Thailand for the first time: Alyxoria varia (Pers.) Ertz & Tehler, Dimidiographa graphidiza (Nyl.) Ertz & Tehler, and Opegrapha agelaeotera Vain. Their identification was confirmed through morphological, anatomical, and chemical analyses. Alyxoria varia is characterized by fusiform, 5 –7-septate ascospores and the absence of secondary metabolites. Dimidiographa graphidiza produces psoromic acid, with oblong to ellipsoid, 7-septate ascospores and a discontinuous excipulum. Opegrapha agelaeotera is distinguished by 3-septate ascospores. Key words: Alyxoria, Ascomycota, Dimidiographa, Opegrapha, taxonomy.
39531	Berger F. & Zimmermann E. (2026): Contribution to the knowledge of the lichenicolous mycobiota of the Alps. III. – Lichenicolous fungi on Lobaria sensu lato in the European Alps (new records from Austria and Switzerland) and an overview of the diversity of lobariicolous fungi in Europe. - Herzogia, 39: 56–91. https://doi.org/10.13158/heia.39.1.2026.56. In addition to other findings of rare lichens and lichenicolous fungi (Berger & Zimmermann 2022, 2024), locations in Stodertal (Upper Austria; Austria) surprised us with an exceptional diversity of lichenicolous fungi associated with Lobaria sensu lato (= loF). In total 22 species were recorded there, twelve of them new for Austria. Search was subsequently intensified in Switzerland too, resulting in seven first records for that country. In all, we were able to detect 27 species in the Alps, facultatively or obligatorily colonizing Lobaria sensu lato, some of which remain undescribed. Pronectria styrae and Xenonectriella variospora are described as new species. A sketch of an undescribed Arthonia sp. on Lobaria pulmonaria (L.) Hoffm. is added. Eight species are new to the Alps (Calycina lobariae, Catillaria lobariicola, Cladosporium cf. delicatulum, Lichenopeltella lobariae, Nanostictis christiansenii, Sarocladium strictum, Tremella lobariacearum agg., Vouauxiella sp.). Further we present a list of 29 more loF from Europe, exclusively found outside the Alps, including brief notes on references and geographical distribution. A key of all loF in Europe is presented. Key words: Pronectria, Xenonectriella, Spirographa, Arthonia, new species, new records, key.
39530	Ismailov A. & Urbanavichus G. (2026): New records of lichenicolous fungi and lichens from Dagestan (Eastern Caucasus), with notes on their distribution. - Herzogia, 39: 92–102. https://doi.org/10.13158/heia.39.1.2026.92. The presented results were obtained during a survey in the mountains of Southern Dagestan at an elevation of 1770 –2700 m a.s.l. We report seven species of lichenicolous fungi and three lichen species, including nine species as new to the Caucasus. Of these, five species are reported for the first time for Russia: Arthonia aspiciliae, A. hawksworthii, Lichenostigma triseptatum, Placocarpus melanophthalmosus and Polycoccum thallicola. The last two species are reported as new to Asia. The Caucasian collection of Polycoccum thallicola from Dagestan is only the second confirmed record of the species since its original description in 1896. Endococcus perpusillus, Lecanora caesiosora, Sclerococcum montagnei and Sphaerellothecium contextum are recorded for the first time for the Caucasus. The first confirmed record of Endococcus perpusillus s.str. on the thallus of Schaereria fuscocinerea in Russia is discussed. The second confirmed finding of the rare European species Acarospora irregularis for Russia and the Caucasus is documented. Key words: Biodiversity, high-mountain, inventory, lichenized fungi, new records.
39529	Zhurbenko M.P. (2026): Arctomyces gyalectae gen. et sp. nov. and Caeruleoconidia makarovae sp. nov.: two new lichenicolous ascomycetes from the Arctic. - Herzogia, 39: 103–112. https://doi.org/10.13158/heia.39.1.2026.103. One new genus and two new species of lichenicolous fungi from the Arctic are described: Arctomyces Zhurb. (type: A. gyalectae Zhurb. on Gyalecta foveolaris), characterized by perithecioid black ascomata, an exciple with a dark outer layer and colourless inner layer, unbranched non-anastomosing paraphyses lining the entire ascomatal cavity, a hemiamyloid hymenial gel, unitunicate asci with up to ~400 spores, and colourless aseptate ascospores; and Caeruleoconidia makarovae Zhurb. (on Lepra dactylina), where the teleomorph is described for the first time for this genus. Key words: Anamorph-teleomorph relationship, lichen-dwelling fungi, Russia, taxonomy, USA.
39528	Zhurbenko M.P. & Melekhin A.V. (2026): Lichenicolous fungi of the Murmansk Region of Russia: New taxa, new records and a second synopsis. - Herzogia, 39: 113–133. https://doi.org/10.13158/heia.39.1.2026.113. One species and one variety of lichenicolous fungi are described as new to science: Epibryon verrucariae Zhurb. (on Verrucaria margacea), with non-setose ascomata, well-developed periphysoids, and mainly 1-septate ascospores; further Merismatium heterophractum var. placynthii Zhurb. (on Placynthium pannariellum), with ascospores mainly 3 –5-celled in optical section. Sclerococcum attendendum s.l. on Pyrenopsis sp., possibly representing a distinct taxon, is characterized. Gyrophthorus gracilis and Polycoccum sporastatiae are newly reported for Russia, while Cercidospora soror, Endococcus verrucosus, Lichenopeltella inconspicua, Sagediopsis aspiciliae, and Sclerococcum australe are new to the Murmansk Region. In asci of Merismatium heterophractum, the formation of two tetrads of differently coloured spores was sometimes observed. A synopsis is presented for 160 species of obligately lichenicolous fungi recorded to date from the Murmansk. Key words: Floristics, lichen-dwelling fungi, Northern Europe, taxonomy.
39527	Etayo J., Divakar P.K. & Hawksworth D.L. (2026): New and interesting lichenicolous fungi from South Africa. - Herzogia, 39: 134–150. https://doi.org/10.13158/heia.39.1.2026.134. Seventeen species of lichenicolous fungi are recorded from South Africa as a result of a collecting trip to the Cape Provinces in 2005. Four of them proved to be new species: Cercidospora capensis on a Caloplaca s. lat., Endococcus bicinctus on Parmotrema, Feltgeniomyces combeae on Combea mollusca, and Trematosphaeropsis xanthomaculinae on Xanthoparmelia hottentotta. In this study the known distribution of some species is significantly extended. The known lichenicolous mycobiota of South Africa is thereby extended to 34 taxa, some of which as yet have no specific name. Key words: Ascomycota, Cape Provinces, four new taxa, lichen-dwelling fungi, lichens, taxonomy.
39526	Hüvös-Récsi A. & Bauer N. (2026): Punctelia jeckeri (Roum.) Kalb an overlooked species of the Hungarian lichen flora. - Herzogia, 39: 265–279. https://doi.org/10.13158/heia.39.1.2026.265. This article presents the discovery of Punctelia jeckeri, which had not been reported from Hungary, and its occurrences mapped in recent years. The species has been overlooked until now, but our herbarium revision of the BP collection proves that some of the specimens were published under P. subrudecta in recent years. The oldest Hungarian voucher specimen was collected 100 years ago by György Timkó in the Balaton Uplands. According to the results of our mapping work, P. jeckeri is a native lichen taxon of the country’s rainier regions. Key words: biogeography, forest management, nature conservation, oceanic element, Parmeliaceae.
39525	Prokopiev I., Zholobova Zh., Himelbrant D. & Frolova D. (2026): The yellow pigment subauriferin from Melanelixia subaurifera and its identity with secalonic acid A. - Herzogia, 39: 280–283. https://doi.org/10.13158/heia.39.1.2026.280. The structure of a sulfur-yellow pigment from the lichen Melanelixia subaurifera, historically referred to as subauriferin, has been determined. Chromatographic analysis of lichen extracts revealed that this compound coincides with secalonic acid A, a known yellow pigment found in both lichenized and non-lichenized fungi, in terms of molecular weight and UV spectrum. Myelochroa entotheiochroa and Pseudoparmelia cubensis, known for their high secalonic acid A content, were selected as reference samples. A comparison of chromatographic and spectrometric data of secalonic acid A and the pigment subauriferin confirmed their identity. Key words: high-performance liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry.
39524	Feng Y.-S., Li L.-J. & Zhang Y.-Y. (2026): Three new sorediate species of Lecanora sensu lato (Ascomycota, Lecanoraceae) from Anhui Province, China. - MycoKeys, 136: 301–322. https://doi.org/10.3897/mycokeys.136.191950. In this study, three new sorediate species, Lecanora apicifarinacea Y. S. Feng & Y. Y. Zhang, L. pseudolayana Y. S. Feng & Y. Y. Zhang and Verseghya megasorediata Y. S. Feng & Y. Y. Zhang from Anhui Province, China, are described and illustrated based on an integrated analysis of morphological, chemical and molecular data. Phylogenetically, L. apicifarinacea and L. pseudolayana are nested within the L. subfusca group. Lecanora apicifarinacea is characterized by the raised and erumpent soralia that aggregated into irregular patches, and the presence of atranorin and usnic acid. L. pseudolayana is characterized by an amphithecium with small crystals, an egranulose epihymenium, marginally small and dispersed but centrally large and aggregated soralia, and the presence of atranorin and zeorin. Verseghya megasorediata is nested within the genus Verseghya and is sister to V. thysanophora. This species is distinguished by its leprose thallus with a white fibrous prothallus, coarse and large soredia, [22.5]–(27.8)–38.9–(50.0)–[87.5] µm in diameter (n = 155), and the presence of usnic acid. In addition, Verseghya klarae is reduced to synonymy with V. thysanophora, based on their morphological similarity, identical secondary metabolites, and the lack of phylogenetic distance. A key to the Lecanora sensu lato species in Anhui Province is provided. Key words: Eastern China, sorediate lichens, taxonomy, Verseghya.
39523	Makhnykina A.V., Kukavskaya E.A., Panov A.V., Prokushkin A.S., Vaganov E.A. & Groisman P.Y. (2026): Soil CO2 efflux in Scots pine forests in Central Siberia after wildfire and logging: Diurnal and seasonal patterns. - Climate, 14(7): 147 [25 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/cli14070147. Boreal forests are sensitive to external factors, and even small variations can completely alter their natural carbon (C) balance. Today, we face not only the consequences of climate change but also intensified human activity. In most cases, forest disturbances decrease ecosystem stability by disrupting key structural components, often transforming ecosystems into C sources. Soil CO2 efflux is a critical indicator of recovery following disturbances. This study explored the impact of different disturbance types (clear-cutting alone, wildfire alone, and both) on soil CO2 efflux for various ground-cover vegetation (lichens, green mosses, and Sphagnum mosses) in Scots pine forests of the Siberian central taiga. The data indicate that changes in soil CO2 efflux are predominantly driven by wildfires in lichen-dominated plots, by clear-cutting in green moss-dominated plots, and by both wildfires and clear-cutting in Sphagnum moss-dominated plots. Soil CO2 efflux was reduced by 75% and 40% in lichen- and Sphagnum moss-dominated plots, respectively, across burned sites compared to the undisturbed site. The impact of clear-cutting is observed in a decline of the emission rates of from 40 to 60% compared to the undisturbed site for lichen- and moss-dominated plots. The interactive effect of wildfire and logging is established in the reduction of the emission rates, and this decline depends on the type of ground cover. This finding highlights the substantial impact of wildfires and clear-cutting on the C dynamics of Siberian boreal ecosystems. The diurnal and seasonal variations in soil CO2 efflux were most pronounced for moss-dominated plots at disturbed sites. The main factors determining emission efflux variations are carbon content, type of ground cover, and forest floor thickness. This study contributes to a better quantitative understanding of soil CO2 efflux in boreal Scots pine forests from the differently disturbed areas. Keywords: soil CO2 efflux; carbon cycle; lichen; green moss; Sphagnum; soil temperature; soil moisture; Central Siberia.
39522	Hollinger J., Noell N., van den Boom P., Sheard J. & Leavitt S.D. (2026): Lichen community associated with playas in the Great Basin Desert. - Western North American Naturalist, 86(2): 193–234. . We investigated the epiphytic lichen community growing on salt-tolerant shrubs around the margins of playas in the Great Basin Desert. Data from 82 sites in and around playas throughout the region are analyzed. Of the 29 species of epiphytic lichens encountered, a faithful core community of 8 species regularly co-occurred at most playa sites. Two of these species are new to science: Lecania clairii sp. nov. is similar to L. fuscella but consistently produces a purple pigment in the epihymenium, has strictly 8-spored asci, strongly capitate, pigmented paraphyses, and more strongly swollen cells in the amphithecial cortex. Rinodina salinaria sp. nov. is similar to and co-occurs with R. lobulata but consistently lacks the pigment Sedifolia-gray; additionally, its apothecia remain immersed longer, and it has smaller ascospores. The most abundant lichen encountered was Calogaya ferrugineoides, until recently known only from Central Asia. Another Central Asian species, Calogaya polycarpoides, is reported for the first time for North America. Two lichenicolous fungi are common in this community, Arthonia molendoi and another species new to science, Lichenochora endocalogaya sp. nov. The latter is similar to L. xanthoriae but occurs on a different host, Calogaya ferrugineoides instead of Rusavskia elegans, and does not induce the formation of galls. The range and ecology of this halophytic community is discussed and compared with other epiphytic communities found in the Great Basin Desert.
39521	Xie C., Jüriado I., Lehismets J.P.S., Wang L., Ohmura Y., Gheza G., Nascimbene J., McMullin R.T., Randlane T. & Mark K. (2026): Evolutionary conservation of reproductive strategies in the lichen genus Cetrelia (Parmeliaceae, Ascomycota): Insights into symbiont interactions and macroclimatic influences. - Diversity and Distributions, 32(7): e70235 [15 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1111/ddi.70235. Aim: Fungi show a variety of reproductive strategies, switching between haploid and diploid forms to benefit from both, the acquisition of genetic variability through sexual reproduction and rapid population growth via asexual reproduction. Throughout the history of lichenology, lichen reproductive modes (e.g., soredia, isidia, apothecia) have been considered as important characters to circumscribe species. This includes the globally vulnerable lichen genus Cetrelia, where morphologically similar taxa with differing reproductive strategies were regarded as ‘species pairs’. We aim to test the historical species concept and evaluate factors responsible for the expression of differing fungal reproductive modes in the lichen genus Cetrelia. Location: Global, covering Nearctic, Palearctic and Indomalayan biogeographic realms. Methods: The morphology and chemistry of 601 samples representing 18 species were examined under the microscope and using thin-layer chromatography. The Cetrelia species concept was assessed by multi-locus phylogenetic analyses (nrITS-IGS-RPB1-MCM7) based on maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference approaches. The correlation of reproductive traits, lichenized fungal and algal genetic identity, macroclimate, geography, habitat, secondary metabolites and substrate were evaluated using principal component analysis and variance partitioning analyses. Results: The phylogenetic analyses indicate that ‘species pairs’ in Cetrelia are genetically indistinguishable, and primarily sexually reproducing species form a monophyletic clade with their counterpart. Variance partitioning analyses suggest that the reproductive modes of Cetrelia are driven by macroclimate, mycobiont, geography, photobionts and habitat. Main Conclusions: Our work highlights the potential risks of climate change, especially the change of precipitation regimes affecting lichen reproduction and dispersal and the need to conserve habitats in south-east Asia where the lichen genus Cetrelia diversity is largely restricted to. Keywords: climate | fungal reproductive modes | lichenized fungi | reproductive ecology | species pairs | symbiosis.
39520	Skubała K., Chowaniec K., Kowaliński M., Mrozek T., Bąkała J., Latkowska E. & Myśliwa-Kurdziel B. (2025): Ionizing radiation resilience: how metabolically active lichens endure exposure to the simulated Mars atmosphere. - IMA Fungus, 16: e145477 [31 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3897/imafungus.16.145477. To deepen our understanding of lichen adaptation and their potential to colonize extraterrestrial environments, we aimed to identify physiological/biochemical responses of selected lichen species in a metabolically active state to simulated Mars-like conditions in the dark including exposure to X-rays. Our study is the first to demonstrate that the metabolism of the fungal partner in lichen symbiosis was active while being in a Mars-like environment. Diploschistes muscorum was able to activate defense mechanisms effectively. In contrast, increased oxidative stress and associated damage were not effectively balanced in C. aculeata, which does not support the melanin’s radioprotective function in this species. The heavy crystalline deposit on D. muscorum thallus might offer protection enhancing lichen resistance to extreme conditions. We concluded that metabolically active D. muscorum can withstand the X-ray dose expected on the Mars surface over one year of strong solar activity. Consequently, X-rays associated with solar flares and SEPs reaching Mars should not affect the potential habitability of lichens on this planet. Key words: Adaptation, Cetraria aculeata, Diploschistes muscorum, extremotolerance, habitability, lichen, Mars conditions, X-rays.
39519	Joshi Y., Bisht S., Bansal P. & Meena S. (2024): New species and new records of lichenicolous ungi from India. - Kawaka, 60(4): 70–77. DOI: 10.36460/Kavaka/60/4/2024/70-77. Three new taxa of lichenicolous fungi from India namely, Lichenochora solenopsorae, Stigmidium buelliae var. thallinum, and Stigmidium solenopsoricola var. apotheciorum along with 6 new records are described and reported from India, thus raising the tally to 282. Each new taxon is thoroughly characterized with detailed descriptions, covering their morphology and anatomy, host specificity, ecological preferences along with comparative notes highlighting similarities and distinctions between these new taxa and related species. Meanwhile, the new records are listed along with their host and distribution in India. Keywords: Central Himalaya, Western Ghats, Lichenicolous Fungi, New species, New variety, New Records.
39518	Shimizu A. & Tsuyuzaki S. (2026): Substrate stability and stochastic colonization drive saxicolous lichen community assembly on periglacial patterned ground in the Daisetsuzan Mountains, Japan. - Bryologist, 129(2): 84–94. https://doi.org/10.1639/0007-2745-129.2.084. The relationship between saxicolous lichen communities and rock characteristics was investigated on patterned ground in the Daisetsuzan Mountain Range, Hokkaido, Japan. A total of 900 rocks were sampled across 18 sites, and 45 lichen taxa were identified. Zero-inflated Poisson models indicated that the measured rock variables explained only minimal variation in lichen presence, suggesting that initial colonization was largely stochastic. In contrast, species richness on colonized rocks was primarily associated with surface area, which is consistent with established species–area relationships. Correlations were also identified between species richness and rock thickness, shape, and density, indicating that substrate stability may further influence species accumulation. Nonmetric multidimensional scaling revealed that community composition structure was mainly influenced by size-related characteristics, while density contributed secondarily to compositional gradients. Beta-diversity was high among sites, even within the same location, suggesting that substrate characteristics interact with colonization history to shape communities on individual patterned grounds. These findings indicate that the structuring of periglacial saxicolous lichen communities is governed by a combination of substrate heterogeneity, stability, and stochastic colonization. Keywords: Saxicolous lichens, substrate stability, species–area relationship, β-diversity.
39517	Dan M.A., Ozon E.A., Margina D., Nedea M.I., Guțu C.M., Ungurianu A., Nițulescu G.M., Popovici V., Musuc A.M., Bratan V., Anastasescu M., Marinas I.C., Baconi D.L., Arsene A.L., Lupuliasa D. & Tarta E. (2026): Physicochemical and in vitro biological characterization of Usnea barbata extract in Karanja oil for potential applications in skincare. - Cosmetics, 13(4): 174 [26 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics13040174. Plant extracts in vegetable oils are foundational and eco-responsible for skin care, combining their emollient properties with other additional benefits, derived from their antioxidant, antimicrobial and UV-absorbing activity. The present research conducted a complex investigation of Usnea barbata extract in Karanja oil (KO), aiming for its further incorporation into various cosmetic formulations. The lichen extract (UBKO) was obtained through cold maceration. Phytochemical screening was performed using the Folin–Ciocalteu method and Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (GFAAS). Physicochemical properties were evaluated via Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). The rheological behavior and oxidative stability of the oil samples, UBKO and KO, were also investigated. UBKO had a slightly lower density (0.827 vs. 0.955) and pH (4.22 vs. 4.86) than KO, and a slightly higher oxidative resistance, quantified as the induction period (IP) value (6.45 vs. 6.00). The total phenolic-equivalent content (TPC, µg GAE/mL oil sample) was significantly greater in UBKO than in KO (567.16 ± 14.96 vs. 433.26 ± 22.96, p = 0.001). The values of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC, mg/mL) indicated significantly higher antibacterial effect against S. aureus and antifungal effect against C. albicans for UBKO than KO (9.62 ± 2.87 vs. 31.25 ± 18.75, p = 0.049, and, respectively, 5.06 ± 1.68 vs. 37.50 ± 12.50, p = 0.01). Finally, our results showed that UBKO had an estimated sun-protective factor (SPF) of 30.9, slightly higher than 29.8 for the base oil formulation, KO; these findings represent baseline in vitro UV-absorbing trends. All of these results suggest that U. barbata extract in Karanja oil may exhibit complementary bioactive properties with potential applications in skincare. Keywords: Usnea barbata; Karanja oil; total phenolic-equivalent content; heavy metals; rheological properties; oxidative resistance; antioxidant activity; antimicrobial potential; sun-protective factor.
39516	Castro-Rosalez L., Juárez-Maldonado A., Benavides-Mendoza A., González-Morales S., García-León E. & Pérez-Labrada F. (2026): Applications of (+) usnic acid modulate antioxidant enzymatic activity in strawberry plants. - Molecules, 31(13): 2362 [20 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31132362. Usnic acid (UA) is a secondary metabolite produced by lichens that has attracted interest because of its antimicrobial, photoprotective, and antioxidant properties, suggesting its potential use as a biostimulant in agriculture. However, its evaluation in agricultural crops is limited. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of applying (+) UA on enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant systems, photosynthetic pigments, photosynthetic enzyme activity, and markers of oxidative stress in “Albion” strawberry plants. The plants were grown in a peat moss:perlite substrate (1:1, v/v) and cultivated under tunnel greenhouse conditions using a nutrient solution applied via fertigation. (+) UA was applied at 400 µg/mL via three routes (foliar, drench, and a combination of foliar and drench) on three occasions. Leaf tissue was collected 117 days after transplantation, and the biochemical parameters were quantified. (+) UA increased the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPX) (53% via foliar-drench) and catalase (CAT) by 73.5% (via drench), and reduced glutathione (GSH) content by 58% (via foliar). β-carbonic anhydrase (βCA) activity increased by 415% and 384% (foliar and foliar-drench, respectively). Likewise, Ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase-oxygenase (RuBisCO) activity increased by 58.23% (drench) and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC) by 25% and 46% (foliar and drench), suggesting positive effects on the processes associated with CO2 assimilation and transport. In contrast, no significant changes were observed in the levels of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), malondialdehyde (MDA), or proline, indicating the absence of oxidative stress. These findings suggest that (+) UA modulates the enzymatic antioxidant system, promoting favorable physilogical responses without inducing oxidative stress. The use of (+) UA has been proposed as a potential promoter of metabolism in agricultural crops. In addition, new avenues of research are being explored to investigate the role in modulating antioxidant responses under biotic and abiotic stress conditions. Keywords: carbonic anhydrase; RuBisCO; PEP-carboxylase; catalase.
39515	Eliáš P. jun. [ed.] (2026): Zaujímavejšie floristické nálezy. - Bulletin Slovenskej Botanickej Spoločnosti, Bratislava, 48(1): 103–116. . Slovakia; records of lichens and lichenicolous fungi by F. Bednár (p. 104–108), A. Bérešová (Guttová) (p. 110), Z. Fačkovcová & L. Paoli (p. 112).
39514	Monjardino P., Azevedo A.R., Mendonça D., Pozsgai G., Borges P.A.V., Frias J. & Toubarro D. (2026): Metagenomic survey of fungal communities in compost from dairy plant wastewater sludge and garden trimmings. - Biodiversity Data Journal, 14: e174893 [30 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3897/BDJ.14.e174893. Background: Composting converts organic residues into stable organic matter and nutrients under aerobic conditions, improving soil properties and microbiome balance, while mitigating environmental impacts. Although microbiomes of various compost types have been studied, information is still fragmented and often not tailored to specific raw material combinations. In particular, little is known about the fungal communities involved in composting dairy plant wastewater sludge mixed with garden trimmings. This data paper contributes to filling that gap by providing a comprehensive taxonomic inventory. New information: We provide a fungus-focused dataset from 18 compost samples generated from a 1:1 (w/w) mix of garden trimmings and dairy plant wastewater sludge, collected at three process stages (thermophilic start/end; mid-cooling and maturation) under two turning regimes. Shotgun metagenomes were taxonomically annotated against NCBI taxonomy (accessed 19 Feb 2025). Only Fungi were detected within Eukarya, spanning nine phyla; Ascomycota (60.8%), Mucoromycota (17.76%), Basidiomycota (8.50%) and Chytridiomycota (7.21%) comprised 94.27% of the taxonomic features. We report 417 genera (13 >1% relative abundance each); top: Aspergillus (17.93%), Rhizopus (8.61%), Chaetomium (4.83%), Aureobasidium (3.09%), Madurella (2.85%), Paramicrosporidium (2.71%), Rhizophagus (1.88%), Rasamsonia (1.81%), Hyaloraphidium (1.39%), Thermochaetoides (1.31%), Talaromyces (1.19%), Trichoderma (1.15%), Podospora (1.06%) comprised 49.81% of the taxonomic feature abundance. Overall 663 taxa were identified (578 species, 416 genera, 230 families, 106 orders, 48 classes and 9 phyla). The dataset (DwCA; 663 occurrences) is intended to serve as a reference for compost mycobiomes and will be available via GBIF (DOI 10.15468/nmpzwr). Keywords: Thermophilic, cooling and maturation, garden trimmings, wastewater sludge, microbiome. Geographic coverage: Terceira Island, Azores Archipelago, Portugal. Solid waste processing centre managed by Teramb – Empresa Municipal de Gestão e Valorização Ambiental da Ilha Terceira, EM. In Terceira Island (Azores Archipelago). [Following lichenized fungal taxa were recorded: Lichinomycetes - Peltula (0.04%), Phylliscum (0.02%), Watsoniomyces (0.01%); Coniocybomycetes - Sclerophora (0.09%); Lecanoromycetes - Diploschistes (0.06%), Gomphillus (0.13%), Gyalolechia (0.01%), Lasallia (0.01%), Peltigera (0.08%), Physcia (0.01%), Thelocarpon (0.01%); Arthoniomycetes - Alyxoria (0.01%); Candelariomycetes - Candelaria (0.09%)]
39513	Osimpo I., Mensah E.O., Adjei Owusu N., Yeboah A., Bruce B.B., Boateng I.D. & Belford E.J.D. (2026): Epiphytes distribution and yield of cocoa trees under shade and full sun conditions. - Conservation, 6(3): 78 [17 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/conservation6030078. Cocoa agroforestry is widely promoted for biodiversity conservation and sustainable production; however, uncertainties remain regarding the distribution of epiphytes and cocoa yield under different shade regimes. This study evaluated the effects of shade on epiphyte distribution and cocoa productivity at two community sites located approximately 6 km apart. One site consisted of cocoa cultivated under indigenous and introduced shade trees, while the other site used a 40% shade net. Annual rainfall at the sites was 1364.70 mm and 1178.44 mm, respectively, with average monthly temperatures ranging from 28 to 35 °C. During the main dry season, light intensity under direct sunlight exceeded 13.00 Klux and was approximately three times greater than in shaded plots. Lichens were the dominant epiphytes across all shade systems, with 40–70 colonies per 225 m2 plot. Only one vascular epiphyte species was recorded, occurring exclusively on cocoa trees under the shade net. Correlation coefficients between light availability and epiphyte abundance ranged from 0.08 to 0.62, indicating that light influenced epiphyte distribution and diversity. Cocoa pod production under indigenous shade trees and full sunlight was comparable (127–177 pods per plot), whereas production under the shade net was approximately twice that recorded in unshaded plots. Although flower cushion abundance varied among treatments, pods from shaded plots generally contained more beans. The highest incidence of diseased and wilted pods occurred under shade trees. Overall, the findings suggest that heavy tree shade may limit epiphyte development through reduced light availability, while uniform artificial shading may enhance cocoa yield. Keywords: fungi; lichens; light distribution; mosses; pod production; Theobroma cacao.
39512	Esslinger T.L. & Morse C.A. (2026): A cumulative checklist for the lichen-forming, lichenicolous and allied fungi of the continental United States and Canada, version 25. - Opuscula Philolichenum, 25: 45–384. . Version 25 of the checklist of lichen-forming, lichenicolous and allied fungi occurring in North America north of Mexico is presented. It includes a total of 6,097 species in 871 genera, with an additional 64 subspecies, 88 varieties, and 8 forms. The total number includes 780 lichenicolous fungi, 135 saprophytic fungi related to lichens or to lichenicolous fungi, and 117 taxa of varying and/or uncertain biological status. In all, 174 families in 73 orders of fungi are represented. The majority of these belong to Ascomycota, but 9 families in 9 orders of Basidiomycota are included. A supra-generic classification is included as an Appendix. Keywords. – Canada, floristics, lichens, nomenclature, United States.
39511	Knudsen K., Roux C., Kocourková J. & Kondrysová E. (2026): Neotypification of Sarcogyne clavus (≡ Patellaria clavus). - Opuscula Philolichenum, 25: 385–389. . After extensive searching the type of Sarcogyne clavus could not be located. A neotype is designated from the area of the type locality in the Pyrenees of France. Keywords – Acarosporaceae, DNA barcodes, nomenclature, taxonomy.
39510	Pawłowicz T., Oszako T., Furmanek Ł., Bachura E., Frąckiewicz Z., Kuryło A. & Kurdzieko W. (2026): Lichen thalli as substrates and microhabitats for slime moulds (Myxomycetes). - Folia Forestalia Polonica, Series A – Forestry, 68(2): 65–74. DOI: 10.2478/ffp-2026-0006. Lichen thalli and plasmodial slime moulds often co-occur in cryptogam-rich microsites on bark, decaying wood and soil, where they form part of complex forest microhabitat systems. This evidence-led synthesis compiles published observations of myxomycete sporocarps developing on lichen thalli, together with evidence for trophic stages within thallus microzones and environmental studies describing lichen–myxomycete co-occurrence under shared abiotic drivers. The assembled evidence indicates that lichen thalli repeatedly act as microtopographically heterogeneous fruiting substrates, potentially linked to surface roughness and associated microbial films, and can harbour myxomycete trophic stages, whereas direct evidence of feeding on lichen symbionts is absent. Licea parasitica (Zukal) G.W. Martin is the most consistently documented taxon on lichen thalli and is also recorded on bare bark, indicating a facultative, substrate-flexible association. When lichen substrates are grouped ecologically, L. parasitica is reported predominantly from corticolous (epiphytic) lichen systems, whereas terricolous (epigeic) lichens are associated with recurrent records of other myxomycete taxa. Treating lichen thalli as myxomycete microhabitats can improve interpretation of cryptogam-associated forest biodiversity and guide targeted tests of trophic-stage activity within thallus microzones. Keywords: bark, cryptogam mosaics, epiphytic lichens, microhabitats, Myxogastria, sporocarps, trophic stages.
39509	Debnath A. & Nayaka S. (2026): Abrothallus henryanae (Dothideomycetes: Abrothallales), a new species of lichenicolous fungi on Sticta henryana from Arunachal Pradesh, India. - Taiwania, 71(3): 435‒443. DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.435. A lichenicolous fungus, Abrothallus henryanae, is described as new to science, which inhabits the apothecia of Sticta henryana. The lichen was collected from Arunachal Pradesh, India. The novel taxon is readily distinguished in having black, stipitate ascomata, covered by greenish-yellow pruina and two-septate, brown, finely ornamented ascospores. The novelty of the species is also confirmed through phylogenetic analyses of the internal transcribed spacer of the ribosomal DNA (nrITS) region. This is the first molecular study of lichenicolous fungi from India. A key to all known lichenicolous Abrothallus species colonizing Sticta in the world is also provided. Keyword: Abrothallus granulatae, Himalayas, mycobiota, molecular systematics, Northeast India, nrITS, phylogeny.
39508	Kumar V., Upreti D.K., Nayaka S. & Sharma Y.P. (2026): Taxonomic notes on the genus Awasthiella (lichenized ascomycetes) from India. - Taiwania, 71(3): 546‒551. DOI: 10.6165/tai.2026.71.546. As a part of ongoing revisionary studies of the Indian Verrucariaceae, the type specimen of Awasthiella indica was re-examined, which revealed additional characters for the genus. Additionally, A. amarkantakana is proposed as new to science. The new species is characterized by continuous to rimose-areolate, pale-grey to brownish-grey thallus, completely immersed perithecia arising marginally to submarginally, 8-spored asci and simple, hyaline ascospores measuring 20–30 × 7–12.5 µm. The new taxon is distributed in central and south India. Keyword: Awasthiella amarkantakana, Awasthiella indica, central India, diversity, revision, taxonomy, Verrucariales.
39507	Santos L.P., Pereira E.C. & Buril M.L.L. (2026): Occurrence and distribution of fruticose lichens in Catimbau National Park: An endemic semi–arid area of the Brazilian Northeast. - Evansia, 43(2): 57–72. https://doi.org/10.1639/0747-9859-43.2.57. Although Brazil harbors high lichen diversity and endemism, the biodiversity and composition of several areas remain poorly known, and data for many groups are still lacking. The Caatinga is neglected in studies and often considered to have low biodiversity due to gaps in knowledge of its lichen biota. This is the first survey exploring the composition and diversity of fruticose lichens in the Brazilian Caatinga, focusing on Catimbau National Park (Brazil). Species of Ramalina, Teloschistes, and Usnea were recorded and described, along with their distribution and the geographical factors influencing their occurrence. These lichenized fungi occurred and spread in the Park, even in the buffer zone, subjected to anthropogenic pressure. Among the recorded species, five correspond to first records for the North and Northeast regions of Brazil (R. dendriscoides, U. cornuta, U. dasaea, U. subelegans, U. subscabrosa), and one is the first record for the state of Pernambuco (R. dendriscoides). Keywords: Caatinga, lichenized fungi, protected areas, species richness, tropical dry forest.
39506	McCune B. (2026): European invades local outdoor basketball court, dominates baseline: Bacidina caligans new to North America. - Evansia, 43(2): 42–48. https://doi.org/10.1639/0747-9859-43.2.42. The sterile sorediate crustose lichen Bacidina caligans occurs on concrete near Corvallis, Oregon, U.S.A, and is new to North America. Although morpho-chemical identification was unsuccessful, an ITS sequence provided a ready match to a number of sequences of Bacidina adastra and B. caligans in Genbank. Bacidina adastra is thought to occur on eutrophic bark, wood, soil, and rock in Europe, while B. caligans is reported from calcareous rock and concrete. Because B. caligans is a rather cryptic species with few distinctive features that are reliably present (apothecia and pycnidia are typically absent), it is almost certainly more widespread and abundant in Pacific coastal states of North America than this single record would suggest. In addition to the long conidia, other notable features include a green thallus that turns a drab tan after only a month or two indoors, green soralia that coalesce into a continuous leprose thallus, and spot tests that are negative for K, KC, C, and P. Keywords: Bacidina adastra, lichenized fungi, Ramalinaceae, sterile sorediate crustose lichens, eutrophic lichens, concrete.
39505	Torres-Benítez A., Pizarro-Piña N., Romero-Parra J., Vargas-Arana G., Sánchez M., Gómez-Serranillos M.P. & Simirgiotis M.J. (2026): Phytochemical Profiling and Antioxidant and Enzymatic Evaluation of Extracts from the Antarctic Lichens Polycauliona candelaria and Placopsis antarctica. - Molecules, 31(13): 2242 [21 p.] . https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31132242. The high prevalence and incidence of neurodegenerative diseases pose a public health challenge and drive the search for alternative treatments. This study determined the chemical composition of hydroalcoholic extracts from the Antarctic species Polycauliona candelaria and Placopsis antarctica and evaluated their antioxidant and cholinesterase-inhibitory potential through in vitro assays and molecular docking. Using UHPLC/ESI/QToF/MS, 16 compounds were tentatively identified in P. candelaria and 11 in P. antarctica. P. antarctica exhibited greater antioxidant capacity (2.69 ± 0.15 mg GAE/g in TPC, and an IC50 for DPPH and ABTS of 330.64 ± 0.02 and 63.33 ± 0.02 µg/mL, respectively) and inhibitory activity (IC50 for AChE and BuChE of 654.42 ± 0.03 and 845.58 ± 0.01 µg/mL, respectively) similar to P. candelaria. Molecular docking analyses revealed that gyrophoric acid and stictic acid possess outstanding binding affinities, comparable to the drug galantamine, by effectively interacting with the catalytic sites of the enzymes. This is the first report on the chemical compounds present in extracts of P. antarctica and P. candelaria and contributes to the understanding of their therapeutic potential. Keywords: chemical characterization; bioactive compounds; extracts; Antarctic lichens; screening biological; antioxidant activity; enzymatic inhibition.
39504	Pérez-Ortega S., Ortiz-Álvarez R., Wierzchos J., Blázquez M., Gérault A. & de los Ríos A. (2026): Exploring the lichenization continuum through the marine tripartite symbiosis of Collemopsidium pelvetiae. - American Journal of Botany, 113(6): e70210 [17 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1002/ajb2.70210. Premise: Symbioses between lichen-forming fungi and brown algae (phaeophytes) are extremely rare. We investigated the interactions between the marine fungus Collemopsidium pelvetiae and its two photosynthetic partners, the brown alga Pelvetia canaliculata and a cyanobacterial symbiont to address questions on symbiosis biology, lichenization, and the diversity of fungal–photosynthetic associations in marine environments. Methods: We combined light microscopy, fluorescence microscope in structural illumination microscopy mode (SIM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to characterize thallus architecture, symbiont interfaces, and ultrastructural interactions. Amplicon-based 16S rRNA sequencing profiled cyanobacteria and heterotrophic bacteria from two regions (northern Spain and Brittany, France). Results: Collemopsidium pelvetiae had distinct interactions with its two photosynthetic partners and with heterotrophic bacteria. Interactions with Pelvetia canaliculata were restricted to the region beneath the perithecia, where hyphae penetrated the outer amorphous cell-wall layer, without any evident host defense response. In contrast, the interaction with cyanobacteria involved the formation of intracellular haustoria, which ultimately lead to the death of the cyanobionts, suggesting a controlled parasitic relationship or a transitional stage toward lichenization. Unexpectedly, C. pelvetiae also produced haustorium-like projections into heterotrophic bacterial cells, a structure not previously reported in lichen symbioses. Microbiome analysis identified Pleurocapsa as the most likely cyanobiont genus associated with C. pelvetiae and revealed consistent heterotrophic bacterial communities, suggesting a species-specific assemblage. Conclusions: This marine tripartite symbiosis involves distinct interaction modes, challenging strict lichen definitions. We propose that lichen symbioses form a multidimensional continuum of strategies rather than a single mutualistic model.
39503	Duan X., Yang X., Xia W., Zhang M., Deng W., Luan F., Yue H. & Wang C. (2026): Omphalina microcarpa (Omphalinaceae, Agaricales), a new interesting basidiolichen fungus from subtropical China. - Phytotaxa, 763(2): 173–182. https://doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.763.2.4. Omphalina microcarpa, a new basidiolichen species, is described from southern China based on morphological and molecular evidence. Morphologically, it is characterized by the small basidiomata measuring 3–12 mm in diam; pleurotoid, flabelliform to spathuliform and white to pale yellow pileus; lacrymoid to amygdaliform basidiospores measuring 4.5–6 × 4–4.5 µm; and having some maize yellow to deep yellow ellipsoid moss cells at the lamellae and stipe base. Phylogenetic analysis of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) of ribosomal DNA showed that the new collections in this study formed an independent and undescribed lineage within the genus Omphalina. The present study provides a detailed description, including illustrations, comparative notes on related taxa, and results of its phylogenetic analysis. Key words: Asia, Novel taxon, Phylogenetic analysis, Taxonomy.
39502	Feng Y.-S., Wang X.-Y. & Zhang Y.-Y. (2026): Morphology, chemistry, and phylogeny reveal two new species of the genus Lecidella (Ascomycota, Lecanoraceae) from Anhui Province, China. - Journal of Fungi, 12(6): 453 [16 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/jof12060453. In this study, two new species, Lecidella biformis Y. S. Feng & Y. Y. Zhang and L. versicolor Y. S. Feng & Y. Y. Zhang, are described from Anhui Province, China, based on morphological, chemical, and molecular evidence. Phylogenetic analyses show that these two new species, together with L. albida Hafellner, form a well-supported clade characterized by small apothecia (less than 0.5 mm in diameter), a hyaline, yellowish-brown or nut-brown hypothecium, and the presence of atranorin. Lecidella biformis is distinguished by dimorphic apothecia, ranging from brown with a paler margin to entirely brown, a blackish-brown or nut-brown epithecium, a yellowish-brown or nut-brown hypothecium, and the presence of atranorin and methyl 2′-O-methylmicrophyllinate. Lecidella versicolor is characterized by apothecia that are yellow to reddish-brown when young and nut-brown at maturity, an orange-brown epithecium, a hyaline to yellowish-brown hypothecium, anastomosed paraphyses, and the presence of atranorin only. Detailed descriptions, discussions, and illustrations are provided for the new species, along with a key to all known Lecidella species from China. Keywords: eastern China; lecideine apothecia; lichen; taxonomy.
39501	Siedlarczyk G., Podolak I. & Galanty A. (2026): Usnic acid and its topical use—A concise review . - Molecules, 31(12): 2183 [19 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31122183. Usnic acid (UA), a prominent lichen secondary metabolite, exhibits a unique dual therapeutic profile in dermatology, though its clinical translation is limited by systemic hepatotoxicity and poor solubility. This review comprehensively evaluates the topical efficacy, molecular mechanisms, and advanced formulation strategies of UA enantiomers and UA-rich extracts. A literature search across PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar identified 36 original publications focusing on anti-melanoma activity, photoprotection, and tissue regeneration. In vitro studies demonstrate that UA induces apoptosis in resistant melanoma cell lines (A375, HTB-140) via extrinsic/intrinsic pathways, with (−)-UA effectively overcoming doxorubicin resistance. Conversely, in non-cancerous models, low concentrations of UA accelerate wound and burn healing by upregulating vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), stimulating fibroblast proliferation, and optimizing extracellular matrix remodeling while preventing hypertrophic scarring. To mitigate skin sensitization and systemic risks, advanced drug delivery systems—including liposomes, nanoemulsions, chitosan nanogels, and electrospun scaffolds—have been developed, significantly enhancing skin permeability and localized dermal retention. Ultimately, the development of bio-functionalized smart dressings and targeted nano-formulations represents the most viable path toward unlocking the full clinical potential of UA in modern dermatological and oncological care. Keywords: usnic acid; lichen extracts; melanoma; wound healing; liposomes; topical.
39500	Fernández-Prado N., Méndez M. & Martínez I. (2026): Diversity and seasonal dynamics of arthropods interacting with the lichen Lobaria pulmonaria. - Journal for Nature Conservation, 93: 127328 [14 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jnc.2026.127328. Forest habitat complexity is crucial for biodiversity, although fine-scale complexity remains understudied. On three trunks, arthropods assemblages are shaped by bark structure and seasonality, but epiphytic lichens add structural complexity to trunks, contributing to retain moisture and microclimate stability. This study examines how microhabitat complexity provided by Lobaria pulmonaria, a foliose cyanolichens, interacts with bark structure and seasonal variation to shape arthropod communities in montane Mediterranean forests (Fagus sylvatica and Quercus pyrenaica). Seasonal comparisons among lichen thalli and basal/high traps, analyzed with two-way ANOVA, NMDS, PERMANOVA, SIMPER, Bray-Curtis, and bootstrap ratio-of-means (ROM), revealed microhabitat as the dominant driver. L. pulmonaria consistently supported much higher arthropod abundances than bark, with ROM reaching around 20–32x on Quercus in autumn and winter relative to traps. Taxon richness did not differ significantly among microhabitats, but decomposers and detritivores (Acarina, Collembola, Psocoptera) concentrated on Lobaria pulmonaria. Tree identity modulated effect size, with stronger responses on Quercus pyrenaica, while Acarina Oribatidae responded more on Fagus sylvatica. These results indicate that L. pulmonaria acts as a refugial microhabitat buffering environmental stress, especially during leaf-off, cold seasons. From a conservation perspective, maintaining large cyanolichen thalli on host trees is essential to sustain arthropod abundance and functional diversity in Mediterranean forests, where cyanolichens are vulnerable to fragmentation and management. Their decline could lead to cascading effects on arthropod communities and ecosystem processes such as decomposition and nutrient cycling. Keywords: Forests; Interactions; Lichens; Mediterranean Spain.
39499	Steinová J., Zuna M., Leshchenko Yu. & Konečná E. (2024): Monitoring výskytu druhu Cladonia stellaris v NP Šumava v letech 2020–2023 [Monitoring of Cladonia stellaris in the Šumava National Park in years 2020–2023]. - Silva Gabreta, 30: 35−53. https://www.npsumava.cz/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/steinova_web.pdf. Cladonia stellaris represents a rare relict boreal aspect of the Czech lichen flora. This reindeer lichen is one of the critically endangered lichen species of the Czech Republic and the main factors threatening its occurrence in our territory in the future include habitat disturbance and climate change. Between 2020 and 2023, monitoring of the status of the six known localities of this species in the Šumava National Park was carried out, during which ten permanent monitoring plots were established at these localities, where climate sensors recording temperature and relative humidity were placed. The state of each permanent monitored plots was photographed annually. In this contribution, we present the results of this monitoring after the first three years of its duration. The boulder screes at Turnerova chata, the former Hálkova chata and Buzošná represent the richest localities of C. stellaris in the Šumava NP and in the Czech Republic. A significant decline of C. stellaris was observed in two permanently monitored plots (more than 45% compared to the initial status), while in other plots the status can be assessed as stable or even an increase in cover was observed. Monitoring is planned for a total period of ten years. Key words: Bohemian Forest, conservation, monitoring, reindeer lichens, threatened lichens.
39498	Mulroy M., Suhr I., Dart J., Balderas E., Raposo Z. & Rajakaruna N. (2026): Slow succession: A comparison of the saxicolous lichens of a 50-year-old abandoned chromite mine and a nearby undisturbed ultramafic outcrop. - Ecological Research, 41(4): e70095 [7 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1111/1440-1703.70095. Pioneering and succession are well-studied phenomena in the field of ecology but are poorly understood for lithic habitats dominated by cryptogams. Yet pioneering and establishment of epilithic communities constitutes a fundamental ecological process that provides a precursor to the formation of soil terrestrial communities. Abandoned mines offer an exciting opportunity to explore pioneering and succession of lithic habitats. In our study, we quantitatively compared the lichen communities of an approximately 50-year-old abandoned chromite mine to a nearby, undisturbed rock outcrop of similar ultramafic parent material. Our results reveal several differences between these two communities. The early successional community of the mined site had significantly lower lichen cover and species richness, as well as a species composition distinct from the late successional community of the undisturbed rock outcrop. The early successional community was characterized by relatively high cover and frequency of endolithic lichen taxa, which were mostly absent from the late successional community. Our results highlight the slow progress of pioneering and succession in newly exposed areas of rock and emphasize the importance of preserving undisturbed, late successional lithic habitats. Keywords: community ecology | cryptogams | dispersal | geoecology | ultramafic.
39497	Lebreton E. & Lücking R. (2026): (3153) Proposal to conserve the name Gomphillaceae against Asterothyriaceae (Ascomycota, Graphidales). - Taxon, 75(3): e70180 [2 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1002/tax.70180. nomenclature
39496	Wang S., Gao K., Niu D., Jin T., Zhang B. & Bai R. (2026): A new species and two new records of Gloeoheppia (Gloeoheppiaceae) in China and an identification key for this rare genus. - Phytotaxa, 762(2): 167–176. https://doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.762.2.7. Based on morpho-anatomical, chemical, and phylogenetic analyses, a new species (Gloeoheppia planum) and two new records (G. erosa and G. polyspora) in China were identified. Gloeoheppia planum is characterized by squamules that are flat or slightly concave in the center, often forming mats up to 5 cm in diameter. Gloeoheppia erosa is well recognized by its very rough and cracked upper surface. Gloeoheppia polyspora is characterized by a swollen thallus, a smooth upper surface, and 16-spored asci. Detailed descriptions and morpho-anatomical images of the three species are provided, along with a key to the genus Gloeoheppia worldwide. Key words: 1 new species, Biodiversity, Helan Mountain National Nature Reserve, Systematic taxonomy.
39495	Hardenbol A.A., Jones F.A.M., Sjögren J., Ekström A.L., Hekkala A.-M., Jönsson M., Koivula M. & Strengbom J. (2026): Red-listed species under threat: Unexpectedly high deadwood thresholds for their presence in managed boreal forests. - Journal of Applied Ecology, 63: e70436 [12 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1111/1365-2664.70436. Red-listed species form an important basis for conservation action, yet their specific habitat requirements often remain elusive due to their rarity and cryptic nature. We address this gap by testing whether commonly used indirect measures of forest biodiversity can also indicate the presence of red-listed species and yield informative threshold values. We conducted a fieldwork campaign covering 120 plots along a gradient of structural availability and forest management intensity in Sweden. In these plots, we inventoried epixylic fungi and bryophytes, epixylic and epiphytic lichens, and tree-related attributes. Using logistic regression, we tested whether taxon-specific structural thresholds related to deadwood, broad-leaved trees, and large trees could be identified for the probability of presence of an increasing number of red-listed species. We found that deadwood volume, which strongly correlated with deadwood diversity, indicated a significantly increased probability of presence of red-listed epixylic fungi and bryophytes. The threshold values, for a 50% probability of presence of one red-listed species ranged from 36 to 63 m3/ha of total deadwood for fungi and 31 to 58 m3/ha of lying deadwood for bryophytes. For lichens, we were unable to find significant predictors of their presence. Synthesis and applications. We show that deadwood volume is a reliable, taxon-specific indicator of the presence of red-listed bryophytes and fungi but not lichens. By explicitly focusing on threatened species and deriving statistically defined thresholds from managed boreal forests, our study provides empirical benchmarks that go beyond commonly used biodiversity indicators. The threshold values identified here substantially exceed widely cited recommendations, demonstrating that deadwood requirements for red-listed species in contemporary managed landscapes are higher than previously assumed. This underscores the strong context dependence of structural thresholds and highlights a critical mismatch between current deadwood availability and the levels needed to sustain threatened epixylic species, reinforcing the importance of protecting deadwood-rich forests. Keywords: coarse woody debris, cryptogam conservation, ecological threshold, forest management, habitat–area relationship, logistic regression, sessile species, threatened species.
39494	Payzulla T., Adil G. & Mamut R. (2026): New and noteworthy records of Myriolecis (Lecanoraceae, lichenized Ascomycota) in the arid regions of northwestern China. - MycoKeys, 133: 323–344. https://doi.org/10.3897/mycokeys.133.186955. Myriolecis represents one of the richest genera in species diversity within Lecanoraceae. In this study, approximately 700 specimens collected from high-altitude, temperate continental arid-climate regions in northwestern China, including the Kunlun Mountains, the southern Tianshan Mountains, and the Karakoram Range, were examined. A total of six species were identified, among which three are described as new to science: Myriolecis convexa, M. incisa, and M. kunlunica; and three are newly recorded in China: M. fugiens, M. mons-nivis, and M. wetmorei. All species were identified based on morphological, anatomical, and molecular data. Phylogenetic analyses using internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and mitochondrial small subunit (mtSSU) sequences confirm the placement of these species within Myriolecis and support the current species delimitations. Detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations, distribution data, chemical information, and ecological notes are provided for each species, along with comparisons with morphologically similar and phylogenetically related species within the genus. A dichotomous key to 22 species of Myriolecis from China is presented. Key words: Lecanora dispersa group, lichen taxonomy, molecular phylogeny, new taxon, xanthones.
39493	Liang F.H., Wang J.X., Ai M., Jiang W., Zhou S.N., Zhao Z.T., Wang X.Y. & Hu L. (2026): Four new species of Acarosporaceae (Acarosporales, Lecanoromycetes) with carbonized epihymenial accretions from China. - MycoKeys, 133: 367–385. https://doi.org/10.3897/mycokeys.133.196437. Based on a combination of morphological, chemical, and phylogenetic analyses, we report four new species from China: Acarospora carbonacea, A. rorida, Sarcogyne knudsenii, and S. xizangensis. These four species are characterized by endolithic thalli, apothecia with carbonized epihymenial accretions, an Acarospora-type ascus, and the absence of secondary metabolites. Acarospora carbonacea sometimes can develop a white epilithic ecorticate thallus, whereas such a thallus is not observed in the other three species. Comprehensive descriptions, detailed illustrations, and phylogenetic analyses of the four new species are provided. In addition, a compiled species checklist summarizing the diagnostic features of the eight reported species of Acarosporaceae with carbonized epihymenial accretions in China is presented. Key words: Carbonized margin, gyrose disc, phylogeny, Polysporina, taxonomy.
39492	Bhat M., Darshni P. & Srivastava A. (2025): Heavy metals uptake in lichens: A comprehensive review. - Journal of Pollution, 8(1): 360 [8 p.]. https://doi.org/10.37421/2684-4958.2025.08.360. Heavy metals are regarded as one of the most significant environmental contaminants. They can easily get entered in food chain and eventually exert toxic effects through contaminated soils, crops and water, thereby becoming a serious global issue of concern today. There are numerous ways to remove them from the environment, but majority of which are expensive and difficult to employ, effectively. In order to eliminate inert metals and metal contaminants from contaminated air, soil and water, bioremediation is regarded as the most efficient and cost-effective technical approach available. However, the potential of lichens for bioremediation of heavy metals has also been recognized lately as they can accumulate heavy metals by physico-chemical and biological mechanisms including extracellular binding. This is in consequence of a series of morphological and physiological properties exhibited by their thallus such as lack of any protective, conductive and assimilatory tissues such as epidermis, xylem, phloem and roots. The present review is therefore, attempted to discuss a wide range of investigations carried out on uptake of heavy metals by lichens and their effects as well as evaluation of their potential in future bioremediation studies. Keywords: Heavy metals • Lichens • Indicators • Ecosystem.
39491	Câmara P.E.A.S., Pujol-Luz J.R., Garrafoni A.R.S., Carvalho-Silva M., Alvarez F.L., Amorim E.T., Barreto C.C., Andrade Lima J.R.P., Convey P. & Rosa L.H. (2025): Diversity hosted by moss carpets in the Amazonian forest of Amapá, new insights from DNA metabarcoding. - Acta Amazonica, 55: e55bc24374 [21 p.]. https://dx.doi.org/10.1590/1809-4392202403743. Bryophytes play an important role as habitats for many organisms, especially invertebrates, however, few studies have focused on understanding the cryptic ecosystems associated with them. The use of molecular tools allows for advances in diversity assessment of environmental samples. In particular, the use of DNA metabarcoding is an efficient method for detection of the DNA of rare and cryptic species, including resting stages typically undetected in morphological surveys. We used DNA metabarcoding to investigate the hidden diversity present in two moss carpets in the largest of the world’s remaining rainforests, the Amazon. More specifically, our samples took place in the Brazilian state of Amapá, the least affected by anthropogenic pressures. Samples, 10 m apart, were collected under sterile conditions and eDNA was extracted. To maximize diversity coverage, three regions were sequenced (ITS2, COX1 and 16S). A total of 348 taxa were assigned from the sequences obtained, with 123 eukaryotic taxa representing five Kingdoms assigned from COX1, 64 representing four Kingdoms from ITS2 and 161 representing one prokaryotic Domain from the 16S region. A total of 38% of taxa were Fungi, 35% Bacteria and 27% non-fungal eukaryotes. The data obtained highlight the importance of moss carpets providing habitats that support diverse communities. Given the high number of unassigned sequences, the available sequence databases for Amazonian species require improvement. As the region faces multiple threats, there is an urgent need for improvements in collection, identification ability, sequencing and DNA curation. There were several assignments of disease-causing organisms, this highlights the need for monitoring changes in these under-researched habitats. Keywords: bryophyte; high throughput sequencing; one health; cryptic diversity; environmental DNA; tropical rainforest. [based on the sequence ITS2 Absconditella rubra (= Absconditonia) rubra is listed as occurring in Amazonia]
39490	Zarza E., López-Pastrana A., Damon A., Guillén-Navarro K. & García-Fajardo L.V. (2022): Fungal diversity in shade-coffee plantations in Soconusco, Mexico. - PeerJ , 10: e13610 [23 p.]. http://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.13610. Background. As forested natural habitats disappear in the world, traditional, shade- coffee plantations offer an opportunity to conserve biodiversity and ecosystem services. Traditional coffee plantations maintain a diversity of tree species that provide shade for coffee bushes and, at the same time, are important repositories for plants and animals that inhabited the original cloud forest. However, there is still little information about shade-coffee plantation’s fungal diversity despite their relevance for ecosystem functioning as decomposers, symbionts and pathogens. Specifically, it is unknown if and what mycorrhizae-forming fungi can be found on the branches and trunks of coffee bushes and trees, which hold a diversity of epiphytes. Here, we evaluate fungal communities on specific plant microsites on both coffee bushes and shade trees. We investigate the ecological roles played by this diversity, with a special focus on mycorrhizae-forming fungi that may enable the establishment and development of epiphytic plants. Methods. We collected 48 bark samples from coffee bushes and shade trees (coffee; tree), from four plant microsites (upper and lower trunks, branches and twigs), in two shade-coffee plantations in the Soconusco region in southern Mexico, at different altitudes. We obtained ITS amplicon sequences that served to estimate alpha and beta diversity, to assign taxonomy and to infer the potential ecological role played by the detected taxa. Results. The bark of shade trees and coffee bushes supported high fungal diversity (3,783 amplicon sequence variants). There were no strong associations between community species richness and collection site, plant type or microsite. However, we detected differences in beta diversity between collection sites. All trophic modes defined by FUNGuild database were represented in both plant types. However, when looking into guilds that involve mycorrhizae formation, the CLAM test suggests that coffee bushes are more likely to host taxa that may function as mycorrhizae. Discussion. We detected high fungal diversity in shade-coffee plantations in So- conusco, Chiapas, possibly remnants of the original cloud forest ecosystem. Several mycorrhiza forming fungi guilds occur on the bark of coffee bushes and shade trees in this agroecosystem, with the potential of supporting epiphyte establishment and development. Thus, traditional coffee cultivation could be part of an integrated strategy for restoration and conservation of epiphytic populations. This is particularly relevant for conservation of threatened species of Orchidaceae that are highly dependent on mycorrhizae formation. Subjects: Agricultural Science, Biodiversity, Conservation Biology, Ecology, Mycology Keywords: ITS, Mycorrhiza, Cloud forest, Epiphytes, Chiapas, Coffea arabica.
39489	Cifuentes-Araya N., Valdivia D., Pertino M.W., Marroquín-Guerra D., Yáñez O., García-Beltrán O., Ardiles A. & Areche C. (2026): Phytochemical profiling of Sticta caulescens De Not.: green extraction and multiscale chemotaxonomic analysis. - Plants, 15(11): 1761 [17 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15111761. The aim of this research was to identify the wealth of secondary metabolites in the Chilean lichen Sticta caulescens, applying green chemistry approaches and comparing the following two extraction methods: (a) conventional maceration with methanol, and (b) microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) using ethyl lactate as a solvent. In addition, chemoinformatic and chemotaxonomic studies were conducted on S. caulescens and other species of the genus Sticta, which have been reported in previous studies. A UHPLC/ESI-MS/MS analysis allowed for the identification of 32 metabolites obtained from maceration and 33 from MAE, considering carbohydrates, aromatic compounds, acids, depsides, depsidones, dibenzofurans, lipids, anthraquinones, and triterpenes. Maceration using methanol yielded a slightly higher extract percentage than with ethyl lactate (6.3% versus 5.0%), while MAE extracted an almost identical spectrum of metabolites using ethyl lactate,—though including one compound detected only under MAE conditions. This highlighted both the method efficiency and selectivity. This study also incorporates a comprehensive chemoinformatic and chemotaxonomic analysis of secondary metabolites across 12 Sticta species. A computational comparison (Morgan fingerprints, Jaccard similarity, hierarchical clustering, Murcko scaffolds) demonstrated that S. caulescens is one of the most chemically diverse species, closely related to S. cordillerana, and forming part of a major chemotaxonomic lineage, which is characterized by high scaffold richness and shared aromatic/depsidone biosynthetic pathways. Keywords: Sticta caulescens; ethyl lactate; Green extraction; microwave; non-conventional technology; chemotaxonomic analysis.
39488	Roux C. & Pinault P. (2026): Zwackhiomyces cinereae Pinault et Cl. Roux sp. nov. espèce nouvelle de champignons lichénicoles non lichénisé (Xanthopyreniaceae, Dothideomycetes). - Bulletin de la Société Linnéenne de Provence, 77, a06: 1−13. doi : 10.5281/zenodo.20487267. Description of a new species of non-lichenized lichenicolous fungus, Zwackhiomyces cinereae P. Pinault et Cl. Roux, a parasite of the thallus of Aspicilia cinerea. Comparison of the new species with other known Zwackhiomyces. Updated global identification key for Zwackhiomyces.
39487	Arup U., Malíček J., Schiefelbein U. & Holien H. (2026): Lecanora hybocarpa and similar European species – CORRIGENDUM. - Lichenologist, 58(1): 75–78. https://doi.org/10.1017/S002428292610139X. corrigendum
39486	Boxriker M., Ferenc V. & Thüs H. (2026): Bound by ammonia: pollution constrains Cetraria sepincola at the margin of its Central European range. - Lichenologist, 58(1): 60–74. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0024282926101364. Small, isolated populations of cold-adapted species at the edge of their climatic range are highly sensitive to environmental change, making them powerful ecological indicators. Cetraria sepincola (Ehrh.) Ach. is an epiphytic lichen which illustrates this role. It is common in Nordic countries, but in the southern parts of its European range, its distribution has become fragmented and restricted to cold habitats. We studied populations in habitats of high conservation value such as wetlands, montane stone fields, and wooded meadows in south-west Germany, where it persists at the edge of its ecological range in Central Europe and is becoming increasingly rare. Its dependence on specific climatic conditions and selectivity in its photobiont associations make it particularly responsive to shifts in climate and land use. Through historical records, recent observations, data on nitrogen deposition and associated species, we identified key environmental factors shaping the distribution of C. sepincola. Our analysis confirms that populations in south-west Germany occur at the climatic margin of the species’ Central European range. We also found that high-density local populations are linked to low ammonia (NH3) concentrations. Cetraria sepincola associated specifically with Trebouxia lineages from clade S (e.g. OTU S28 = Trebouxia barrenoae and OTU S27), commonly found in lichens from acidic substrates. We found the same Trebouxia lineages in the co-occurring acidophyte Hypogymnia physodes (L.) Nyl., a likely local photobiont donor for C. sepincola, which lacks asexual propagules. At some sites, species of the nitrophytic Xanthorion community started to colonize the same twigs as C. sepincola. In our study area, typically more nitrophytic species from the families Teloschistaceae (e.g. Polycauliona polycarpa (Hoffm.) Frödén et al., Xanthoria parietina (L.) Th. Fr.) and Physciaceae (Physcia adscendens H. Olivier) host Trebouxia algae from clades which are incompatible with C. sepincola. The spread of nitrophytic species and their associated photobionts into formerly acidophytic communities could also reduce the likelihood of finding compatible photobionts for C. sepincola. Climate change, possible direct toxic effects of NH3 on the mycobiont, and indirect impact of NH3 on the lichen and photobiont community exacerbate the extinction risk for sensitive lichens, particularly at the edge of their distribution range. Keywords: Baden-Württemberg; Betula pubescens; lichen; marginal populations; peat bogs; rock screes; sentinel species; Trebouxia.
39485	Ward D.A., Lücking R., Moncada B., Sukri R.S., Cicuzza D. & Slik F. (2026): High diversity at the small scale: an inventory of foliicolous lichens of Brunei reveals 193 species, including 21 new to science. - Lichenologist, 58(1): 10–51. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0024282926101406. We present a first comprehensive treatment of the foliicolous lichen biota of Brunei (Brunei Darussalam), a country c. 5765 km2 in size located on the northern coast of the island of Borneo. Based on a study of numerous leaves collected from 18 sites, resulting in 1745 individual collections, we identified 193 species in the material, including 21 new to science, raising the number of foliicolous lichens known from Brunei from 27 to 199 taxa. This is one of the highest numbers reported for single countries, after Brazil (455 species), Costa Rica (435), Ecuador (365), Mexico (340), Guyana (296), Australia (238), Bolivia and Colombia (228 each), and Papua New Guinea (213). However, relative to log-transformed area size, Brunei is one of the countries with the highest known foliicolous lichen diversity, having almost half the number of species as Costa Rica within an area little more than 10% of the size of the latter. The foliicolous lichen biota of Brunei has a dominant paleotropical element, clustering with that of Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea and Australia. The newly described species are: Arthonia concentrica sp. nov., differing from A. trilocularis in the circular thallus with concentrically arranged, thinly pruinose ascomata; Arthonia flavirugosa sp. nov., differing from A. flavoverrucosa in the delicate, light yellowish ridges and the smaller ascospores; Arthonia tenuilobata sp. nov., differing from A. lobulicarpa in the more delicate lobes, pruinose ascomata and the brown ascospores; Byssolecania fumosocaerulea sp. nov., differing from B. fumosonigricans in the greyish blue outer fringe of the apothecia; Byssoloma inconspicuum sp. nov., differing from B. microcarpum in the dark brown apothecial disc and the excipulum lacking crystals; Byssoloma incrustatimurinum sp. nov., differing from B. murinum in the shorter, non-tapering ascospores and the crystals in the excipulum; Byssoloma subaeruginosum sp. nov., differing from B. usambarense in the dark aeruginous hypothecium and the (olive-)brown thallus; Chroodiscus lirellicarpus sp. nov., differing from C. argillaceus in the lirellate apothecia; Chroodiscus minutus sp. nov., differing from C. argillaceus in the very small apothecia; Echinoplaca septemseptata sp. nov., differing from E. tetrapla in the 7-septate ascospores; Eremothecella rugosa sp. nov., differing from E. calamicola in the ridged thallus and the longer conidia; Eremothecella verrucispora sp. nov., differing from E. calamicola in the brown, ornamented ascospores with more numerous septa; Fellhanera tutongensis sp. nov., differing from F. microdiscus in the 3–7-septate, more elongate, narrower ascospores; Mazosia bambusiradiata sp. nov., differing from M. bambusae in the radiately arranged thallus verrucae; Mazosia rugosa sp. nov., differing from M. pseudobambusae in the rugose instead of verrucose thallus surface; Ocellularia andulauensis sp. nov., differing from O. daniana in the more delicate, foliicolous thallus and the much smaller ascospores; Opegrapha albomarginata sp. nov., differing from all other species of Opegrapha with goniocystangia, in the white margin of the goniocystangia; Phylloporis verrucosula sp. nov., differing from P. palmae in the small perithecia and comparatively narrow ascospores; Porina riparia sp. nov., differing from P. pseudoapplanata [= Phyllophiale viridis] in the finely laciniate thallus with non-radiating photobiont; Spinomyces rubrotrichoides sp. nov., differing from other species in the genus in the multiseptate, worm-like ascospores and from Rubrotricha helminthospora, with which it agrees in ascospore type, in the entirely whitish, more delicate sterile thallus setae; Trichothelium subrobinsonii sp. nov., differing from T. robinsonii in the consistently 7-septate ascospores. The following three species are new continental records: Bapalmuia pallescens (Paleotropics), Lyromma palmae (Paleotropics), and Tapellaria major (Paleotropics). We also include two keys: one to foliicolous species of Arthonia with 2-septate, pigmented ascospores and one to foliicolous species of Porina with Phyllophiale-type isidia. Keywords: biogeography; epiphylls; Indonesia; lichen biodiversity; Paleotropics.
39484	Torres J.-M., Lücking R. & Moncada B. (2026): Marcelaria casanarensis (lichenized Ascomycota: Trypetheliaceae), the fourth species in the genus: does it provide a morphological link between neotropical and paleotropical species?. - Lichenologist, 58(1): 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0024282926101388. The family Trypetheliaceae is a diverse lineage of crustose lichenized fungi occurring almost exclusively in the tropics. Based on material collected in eastern Colombia in the region of the so-called Piedemonte Llanero, we describe here a new species for this family, in the genus Marcelaria, the fourth species known in the genus. The new species, Marcelaria casanarensis, is characterized by a clear hamathecium and large ascospores, similar to the neotropical M. purpurina, but it produces orange instead of red superficial pigmentation, outwardly agreeing with the two paleotropical species, M. benguelensis and M. cumingii. The new species thus appears to provide a morphological link between the currently known neotropical and paleotropical taxa. However, the pigment chemistry is closer to that of M. purpurina, so the orange colour is to be interpreted as homoplasy. Phylogenetically, based on an analysis of two markers, M. casanarensis and M. purpurina are closely related but M. casanarensis differs in two larger insertions in two different regions of the mitochondrial small subunit rDNA (mtSSU). A key to the four species currently accepted in Marcelaria is presented. Keywords: anthraquinones; Laurera; taxonomic link; transitional.
39483	Arsenault A. & Baines P. (2026): The cyanolichen dripzone hypothesis revisited: a first report with new insights from eastern North America. - Lichenologist, 58(2): 112–117. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0024282926101443. Twenty-five years ago, the dripzone hypothesis, whereby the proximity of understorey conifer branches to the crown of dominant Populus trees significantly increased the diversity and abundance of cyanolichens on these conifers, was first described from western North America. Here, we report a similar phenomenon from eastern North America on conifers under the dripzone of yellow birch and aspen trees. We present field observations of this pattern as well as a quantitative analysis of three humid boreal forests from the Island of Newfoundland. For the latter, we examined epiphytic lichen composition on branches of balsam fir within and immediately outside the dripzone of yellow birch trees. The dripzone effect was strong and spatially restricted to the area under the canopy of yellow birch, as well as aspens, on wet sites in humid forests, with significantly more cyanolichens on balsam fir branches under the yellow birch and aspen canopies. Genera of cyanolichens predominantly found under the dripzone included Fuscopannaria, Leptogium, Lobaria, Lobarina, Neproma, Pannaria, Parmeliella, Pectenia, Pseudocyphellaria and Ricasolia, and included the COSEWIC listed Pectenia plumbea. We suggest here that the canopy of broadleaf phorophytes not only shape the cyanolichen community on understorey conifers by chemical enrichment of the throughfall, but also probably from enrichment by cyanolichens within their own canopy, which also contribute abundant cyanolichen propagules. Keywords: enrichment of conifer bark; facilitation; lichen ecology; lichen establishment; Newfoundland and Labrador.
39482	Huereca A., Dal Forno M., Haughian S. & Spribille T. (2026): The cyanolichen Fuscopannaria frullaniae is a basidiolichen in the genus Acantholichen (Hygrophoraceae, Agaricales). - Lichenologist, 58(2): 88–101. https://doi.org/10.1017/S002428292610142X . The crustose cyanolichen Fuscopannaria frullaniae (syn. Moelleropsis nebulosa subsp. frullaniae) is a poorly understood taxon that occurs on mosses and liverworts, described from eastern Canada and reported from the Iberian Peninsula, Macaronesia and the eastern USA. Originally placed in the genus Moelleropsis, the position of the species has been debated in the absence of sexual fruiting structures and, until now, DNA sequences from the fungal symbiont. We produced nine sequences from two fungal ribosomal loci from F. frullaniae collected at five different localities in Nova Scotia, Canada and North Carolina, USA. Initial BLASTn queries against public databases revealed high similarity between these sequences and basidiomycete sequences from the Dictyonema clade in Hygrophoraceae, specifically from the genus Acantholichen. We did not obtain ascomycete sequences from any locus or specimen. Phylogenetic analyses recovered the obtained sequences within the broader Acantholichen clade. We conclude that the lichen fungal symbiont is in fact a basidiomycete and introduce for it the new combination Acantholichen frullaniae. Acantholichen frullaniae is the first species of the genus to possess a granular, crustose thallus. The species lacks the characteristic, spiny, balloon-shaped cells called acanthohyphidia that are found in other species of the genus, though it possesses similar, albeit spineless cells on the surface of thallus granules; we suggest that these structures within the wider genus are homologous and represent spiny or smooth cystidia. Numerous samples yielded evidence of basidiospores and basidia produced from thallus granules, evident only after treatment with diluted potassium hydroxide, representing the first sexual structures reported in the genus. We discuss the possible reasons for this, as well as the ecology and threats to the species across its Canadian populations. Keywords: conservation; molecular phylogeny; species-at-risk; symbiosis; systematics; taxonomy.
39481	Lara-Rojas C.E., Lücking R. & Moncada B. (2026): Graphis epigraphis, a new, genuinely lichenicolous, adelphoparasitic species on Graphis, with a comparative survey of lichenicolous Graphidales (Graphidaceae, Gomphillaceae). - Lichenologist, 58(2): 79–87. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0024282926101455. Graphis epigraphis is described from Colombia as only the second, genuinely lichenicolous species in the Graphis-Allographa complex in Graphidaceae. It grows on species of Graphis s. str., thus far found on thalli of G. leptoclada and G. pinicola. The new species is characterized by the lirellate ascomata forming delicate, stellately branched patches on the host, the entire, black labia laterally covered by a thin thalline margin formed by the host thallus, the laterally carbonized excipulum, and mostly 5-septate ascospores. The only other lichenicolous species known in this complex, Allographa pauciloculata, differing in its completely carbonized excipulum and partly submuriform ascospores, grows on thalli of A. anomala and is known from Great Britain, whereas G. epigraphis was found in the tropical dry forest region of the Magdalena Valley in Colombia. We performed morphology-based phylogenetic binning to confirm the genus-level placement of both species in Graphis and Allographa, respectively. A comparative survey of lichenicolous Graphidaceae and Gomphillaceae (Graphidales) is given. Keywords: Adelphomyces; Barzalosa; Chroodiscus; Corticifraga; Diploschistes; Girardot; Guabinal; Gyalideopsis; Paragyalideopsis; Taitaia.
39480	Darmostuk V., Sira O., Kukwa M., Smoczyk M., Kościelniak R., Betleja L., Kubiak D., Hachułka M., Rutkowski K., Szymczyk R., Gierczyk B., Rutkowski R., Jaskólska J., Poławska M. & Kossowska M. (2026): Materiały do rozmieszczenia porostów i grzybów naporostowych Polski, 6. - Wiadomości Botaniczne, 70: 219834 [24 p.]. https://doi.org/10.5586/wb/219834. [in Polish with English abstract: ] Materials for the Distribution of Lichens and Lichenicolous Fungi in Poland, 6. The paper presents new localities of 27 species of lichens and 3 species of lichenicolous fungi, that are endangered in Poland or regionally rare. The paper also includes a new records of the non-lichenized fungus Naevia dispersa, which, due to its similarity to the lichenized representatives of the genus Arthonia s.l. is often included in lichenological publications. In addition to the list of new localities, a brief morphological and anatomical characterisation is provided for each species, and its distribution in Poland is discussed. The provided locality lists contain geographical coordinates and ATPOL grid squares, modified by S. Cieśliński and W. Fałtynowicz for the purposes of the Atlas of the Geographical Distribution of Lichens in Poland (published by W. Szafer Institute of Botany, Polish Academy of Sciences, 1993). Keywords: lichenized fungi; lichenicolous fungi; biodiversity; rare species; distribution in Poland.
39479	Silva-Espejo R., Cerón-Carpio A.B., Figueroa-Castro D.M., Castañeda-Posadas C. & Pérez-Pérez R.E. (2025): Richness and composition of foliicolous lichens from the northeastern part of Puebla, Mexico. - Nordic Journal of Botany, 2025(5): e04572 [13 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1111/njb.04572. Currently, only 52 species have been reported to the montane rainforests of Puebla. To enhance our knowledge and expand the checklist of the state, we aimed to determine the foliicolous lichen species richness and composition at three sites in Tlatlauquitepec, Puebla: a secondary montane rainforest with coffee plantations (site 1), a lowland rainforest fragment (site 2), and a secondary montane rainforest (site 3). A total of 94 species were identified with 52 being new records for the state, such as Aptrootidea marginata, Calopadia puiggarii, and Chroodiscus coccineus; apart from that, we report 10 new records for the country, among which are Porina fulvelloides, Byssoloma tricholomum, and Calenia atlantica. Most foliicolous species were rare (60.63%) and restricted to less than 10% of the sampled phorophytes, among these we found Porina kameruniensis, Calopadia fusca, and Fellhanera subternella; in contrast, the most frequent species were Fouragea filicina, Actinoplaca strigulacea, Segestria rubentior, Porina karnatakensis, and P. pseudoapplanata. The dissimilarity in species composition between sites was notably high (> 0.8) and could be explained by species replacement between sites 2 and 3, and 1 and 3; whereas between sites 1 and 2 can be explained by differences in species richness. Site 2 exhibited the highest species richness, followed by site 3 and site 1; we attribute this low foliicolous richness in site 1, to the presence of sun-growth coffee plantations. However, despite the conditions of the sites, these findings significantly contribute to the knowledge of foliicolous lichen biota in Puebla and Mexico, raising the total richness of the state to 104 and of the country to 303 species. We advocate for continued exploration of the country's tropical ecosystems to better understand the foliicolous lichen diversity that persists in these habitats, which are increasingly threatened by various anthropogenic pressures and are in danger of extirpation. Keywords: foliicolous lichens, lowland rainforest, Mexico, montane rainforest, Puebla, richness.
39478	Debnath A., Mishra G.K., Adhikari R. & Nayaka S. (2026): New distributional records of lichenized fungi for India from Arunachal Pradesh. - Nordic Journal of Botany, 2026(2): e05012 [12 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1002/njb.05012. In the present communication 10 lichen species are reported as new records for India, viz. Byssoloma marginatum, Byssoloma xanthonicum, Chapsa boninensis, Coenogonium nepalense, Lecania cyrtella, Malmidea albomarginata, Myriotrema thailandicum, Myriotrema viride, Rostania occultata and Wirthiotrema duplomarginatum. Notably, B. marginatum, Malmidea albomarginata, R. occultata and W. duplomarginatum are documented as the first records for Asia. The lichens were collected from three districts of Arunachal Pradesh. These findings further enrich the lichen flora of Arunachal Pradesh. Keywords: Ascomycota, biodiversity, eastern Himalayas, lichenized fungi, taxonomy.
39477	Nadeem M., Niazi A.R. & Khalid A.N. (2026): Oxneriaria kaghanensis sp. nov. (Pertusariales, Megasporaceae) from Kaghan Valley, Pakistan. - Nova Hedwigia, 122: 237–245. DOI: 10.1127/nova_hedwigia/2025/1124. A new species in the family Megasporaceae, Oxneriaria kaghanensis is described and illustrated from Pakistan. A comparative morpho-anatomical study and ITS-based molecular analyses confirmed its position within the recently resurrected genus, Oxneriaria. Oxneriaria kaghanensis is morphologically and phylogenetically closely related to O. kohistaniensis. It is characterized by whitish to whitish grey thallus, areoles 0.8–1.7 mm, apothecia 0.7–1 mm, hymenium 95–110 μm, hypothecium 45–60 μm, asci 79–90 × 29–38 μm and ascospores 17–22 × 10–14 μm. Keywords: Novel species; ITS; Taxonomy; Phylogeny.
39476	Luna J., Thor G., Hedwall P.-O., Böhlenius H., Trubins R., Torres García M.T., Hekkala A.-M., Hylander K. & Felton A. (2026): Habitat suitability and management pathways for epiphytic lichens in Sweden’s fast growing broadleaf stands. - Forest Ecology and Management, 614: 123826 [11 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foreco.2026.123826. Fast-growing broadleaf (FGB) stands are planted in Northern Europe due to their high biomass production and as part of climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies. Yet, the effects on biodiversity of this intensive forest management that involves short-rotations, and sometimes the use of non-native tree species, are still uncertain. Given the limited number of studies investigating the biodiversity of FGB stands in Sweden, we assessed and compared the biodiversity of three FGB tree species and evaluated how tree species, tree traits, stand variables, and landscape features were associated with lichen diversity patterns. To do that, we studied epiphytic lichens in 48 stands of native birch (Betula pendula), and non-native hybrid aspen (Populus tremula x P. tremuloides) and poplar (Populus trichocarpa hybrids) across southern Sweden. Lichen species richness was the highest in birch stands at both the tree and stand level. For all the stands surveyed, poplar and birch had the same total number of lichen taxa (71 taxa), while hybrid aspen hosted fewer lichen taxa (58 taxa). The lichen species composition of the three tree species differed from each other, although lichen communities on hybrid aspen and poplar lichen communities were more similar to each other than to birch. We found lichen species of conservation interest on all tree species, whereas red-listed species only occurred on hybrid aspen and poplar. Older trees, deeper bark crenulation, and higher understory light levels generally increased lichen species richness, whereas the surrounding landscape vegetation cover also influenced species composition. Our results indicate that using a mix of fast-growing broadleaf tree species, rather than planting only one of them within the landscape, making allowances for older trees, and managing light and landscape context improves the diversity of lichens supported within FGB stands. Keywords: Biodiversity conservation; Production forestry; Betula; Populus; Non-native tree; Exotic tree.
39475	Tavares C.A., Cavalcanti I.D.L., Aguiar Júnior F.C.A., Nogueira M.C.B.L., Santos Magalhães N.S. & Santos N.P.S. (2026): Stealth liposomes containing barbatic acid from Cladonia salmannii: Development, characterization, and evaluation of antitumor activity in vivo and in vitro. - Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology, 123: 108463 [13 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jddst.2026.108463. The aim of this study was to develop stealth liposomes containing barbatic acid (BA) and to evaluate their antitumor activity in Swiss mice. Conventional liposomes (BA-CL) and stealth liposomes (BA-SL) were produced using the lipid film hydration method. Cytotoxicity was evaluated against ascites cells from experimental Sarcoma-180 (S-180) tumors and undifferentiated J774. A1 macrophage cells. The internalization of AB-CL and AB-SL by S-180 cells was investigated by fluorescence microscopy. The evaluation of antitumor activity was performed against the experimental S-180 solid tumor. After preparation, the BA-CL and BA-SL formulations had mean diameters of 115.6 ± 5.88 nm and 109.3 ± 2.82 nm and encapsulation rates of 90.66 ± 4.57% and 95.15 ± 5.34%, respectively, and remained stable for at least 90 days when stored at 4 °C. For J774. A1 cells (healthy), the IC50 was determined only at a dose of 40 μg/mL. Cell uptake was most intense after 3 h of incubation. Tumor inhibition was 21.79%, 30.26%, and 42.96% for BA, BA-CL, and BA-SL, respectively. Animals treated with BA-SL exhibited greater tumor inhibition and increased survival time compared to animals treated with the BA suspension. These findings demonstrated that the encapsulation of BA in liposomes increased its antitumor activity. Keywords: Lichens; Barbatic acid; Liposomes; Cytotoxicity; Antitumor.
39474	Pal N., Adhikari R., Nayaka S. & Prakash P. (2026): New records of lichenized fungi from Western Himalaya, India. - Feddes Repertorium, 137(1): e70053 [5 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1002/fedr.70053. Coniocarpon fallax, Lecanora fulvastra, Lecidella destituta, Stereocaulon dactylophyllum and Toniniopsis subincompta have been reported as new records for India from Western Himalaya. Detailed morphological and anatomical observations, together with photographs, are provided. Keywords: biodiversity | Ramalinaceae | taxonomy | Uttarakhand.
39473	Colesie C. & Newsham K.K. (2026): Lichens as biomonitors of air quality and climate. - Global Change Biology, 32(2): e70768 [4 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1111/gcb.70768. Keywords: air pollution | air temperature | ammonia (NH3) | epiphytic lichens | nitrogen oxides (NOx) | relative humidity | sulphur dioxide (SO2).
39472	Halder S. & Gachhui R. (2026): Two new distributional records of lichens from India. - Feddes Repertorium, 137(1): e70067 [4 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1002/fedr.70067. The present study deals with new addition and distributional records of two lichenized fungi in the lichen flora of India. The two lichen species Anisomeridium throwerae and Traponora asterella belong to the family Monoblastiaceae and Lecanoraceae, respectively. Traponora asterella was the first generic report, and Anisomeridium throwerae was reported for the first time in India from the state of West Bengal, described along with its photographs, ecology, and distribution map. Keywords: Anisomeridium | India | lichen | new record | Traponora.
39471	Möller T., Kaufmann S. & Hauck M. (2026): Functional traits mediate physico-chemical niche differentiation of epiphytic lichens and bryophytes in temperate forests. - Journal of Vegetation Science, 37(2): e70127 [14 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1111/jvs.70127. Questions: Differences among host trees in chemical and physical bark features strongly influence the preferences of epiphytic lichens and bryophytes. Element contents can enhance, limit, or impair performance, with bark pH further modulating bioavailability. Establishment is closely linked to functional traits that define habitat thresholds, particularly under acidic conditions. Yet such traits are often overlooked in community analyses. We asked how host-specific bark chemistry filters epiphytes and how functional traits mediate these responses. Location: Temperate mountain forests of the Southern Black Forest, southwestern Germany. Methods: We surveyed 96 trees of Abies alba, Picea abies, and Fagus sylvatica across 24 plots. Bark physico-chemical features (pH, element concentrations, water-holding capacity) were linked to epiphyte communities using double-constrained canonical analyses, considering functional traits such as bryophyte growth habit, lichen growth form, photobiont type, and lichen substances. Threshold Indicator Taxa Analysis identified community and species thresholds along bark chemical gradients, and functional diversity metrics quantified community-level responses. Results: Fir occupied an intermediate position between beech and spruce in bark chemistry and community structure. Lichen substances were key correlates of composition across hosts. On spruce, strong associations between transition metals (Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn) and lichen substances indicated metal homeostasis as a central tolerance strategy, accompanied by a marked Asterochloris signature. Bryophyte communities segregated along C/N, Zn, and Mn ratio gradients, with acrocarpous and pleurocarpous groups showing contrasting responses. Functional divergence of lichens increased along Mn and pH gradients and declined with higher bark P. Conclusions: Epiphyte assembly is governed by interactions between bark chemistry and species traits. Host identity and substrate chemistry create functional thresholds that drive community turnover, supporting a trait-based filtering perspective that links tree-scale habitat conditions with the structure and functional diversity of epiphytic communities. Keywords: Asterochloris | bark chemistry | functional diversity | functional traits | lichen substances | metal homeostasis | species thresholds | tree species identity.
39470	Gauslaa Y. (2026): Trait- and environment-based determinants of reproduction in the old forest indicator lichen Lobaria pulmonaria. - Oecologia, 208: 60 [11 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00442-026-05897-3. Effective conservation of the iconic old forest lichen Lobaria pulmonaria depends on understanding its life history bottlenecks. To address this, reproductive dynamics were evaluated in 302 juvenile and early-reproducing thalli transplanted across environmental gradients—including elevation, canopy openness, and bark pH—in pristine British Columbian forests over a 14 months period. Soralia cover increased significantly but at a slow rate, with marginal soralia appearing earlier and more frequently than laminal soralia. The intrinsic trait of initial total soralia cover emerged as the strongest predictor of the change in reproductive effort. Additionally, thalli with low specific thallus mass at start (STMStart) and rapid growth rates exhibited reduced reproductive activity. Environmental stressors, such as high-light-induced chlorophyll bleaching and elevated altitude, weakly inhibited soralia development. Sexual reproduction was rare, with apothecia present in only 2% of transplants and no new apothecia forming during the study. The findings highlight the slow pace of soralia formation and, coupled with the species’ long generation time, suggest that current forest rotation cycles in managed forests may be insufficient to sustain viable L. pulmonaria populations. Conservation strategies should therefore account for both slow reproductive onset and sensitivity to environmental conditions. Keywords Epiphytic lichens · Specific thallus mass · Reproductive investment · Environmental stressors · Forest management.
39469	Caron F., Samuleev P., Lakanen M., Anderson J., Spiers G.A., Beckett P.J., Halvorson B. & Charbonneau M. (2026): Analysis of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in lichens using neutron activation analysis (NAA) as a primary method and comparison with a digestion/ICP-MS analysis protocol. - Journal of Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry, 335: 3741–3755. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10967-026-10886-0. Lichens are widely used as biomonitors for assessing environmental baselines for stress or recovery of nutrients and potentially toxic elements (PTEs). In this study, lichens were analyzed using neutron activation analysis (NAA) as a primary method, and compared to a digestion-ICP-MS protocol in two independent laboratories. Three fruticose lichens were analyzed: two were collected near Sudbury (Ontario, Canada) and a certified reference material (CRM) lichen (BCR 482). NAA routinely quantified 22 elements in the samples, and generally agreed with the certified and indicative CRM values, except for Co. Inter-methods comparisons had a strong linearity (R2 > 0.93) for all three lichens. A lower slope (0.7257) for one of the lichens (Cladonia spp.) suggested a low digestion recovery relative to NAA. Overall, NAA was a robust primary method for multi-element lichen analysis, especially trace and minor elements, with minimal sample preparation. Keywords: Neutron activation analysis · Lichens · Biomonitors · ICP-MS digestion · Lichens analysis · Potentially toxic elements · Environmental monitoring.
39468	Bouchriti Y., Haddou M.A., Achbani A., Sine H., Rida J., Lkoul A., Gougueni H., Amiha R. & Kabbachi B. (2026): A decade of air quality biomonitoring in North Africa: a systematic review reveals dominance of lichen and heavy metal studies alongside substantive methodological gaps. - Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 33: 8032–8050. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-026-37818-5. Air pollution is a major challenge in North Africa, but a comprehensive synthesis of biological monitoring (biomonitoring) approaches for the region is absent. This systematic review addresses this gap by providing the first methodologically appraised analysis of scientific evidence (2014 to 2024) on the use of bioindicators for air quality assessments across North Africa. The review protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251166809). Following PRISMA guidelines, searches in PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science identified 508 records, with 32 studies included for synthesis. The analysis revealed that lichens are the predominant bioindicators (62.5%, 20/32), notably Xanthoria parietina, followed by vascular plants (31.3%, 10/32). Research is heavily focused on heavy metals (78.1%, 25/32), particularly lead, zinc and copper, whereas gaseous pollutants and particulate matter remain underrepresented. Despite employing advanced analytical techniques, the studies exhibit significant methodological limitations: only 15.6% calculated bioaccumulation factors, 18.8% used transplantation techniques, and correlations with instrumental air quality data were rare. This methodological inconsistency constrains quantitative risk assessment and regional data comparability. This review provides new knowledge by quantifying thematic biases, systematically appraising methodological quality against predefined criteria and translating these findings into a strategic framework, including standardized protocols and a regional network, tailored to North Africa’s arid environments. Accordingly, we recommend establishing standardized regional protocols, integrating biological and physicochemical data and creating a coordinated North African biomonitoring network to generate comparable, context-aware data for evidence-based air quality management in the region’s unique arid and semiarid environments. Keywords: Biomonitoring · Air quality · Lichens · Heavy metals · North Africa · Methodological gaps.
39467	Flister J., Tinker-Tsavalas A., Voigt-Heucke S., Schröder B. & Griesbaum F. (2026): The City Nature Challenge as an urban BioBlitz: evaluating Citizen Science contributions to biodiversity monitoring in Berlin. - BMC Ecology and Evolution, 26: 49 [13 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12862-026-02524-w. Background: The human-induced loss of biodiversity demands innovative, resource efficient monitoring approaches, such as Citizen Science, to complement traditional biodiversity monitoring methods. BioBlitz events are an established Citizen Science format for biodiversity monitoring that generates as many species observations as possible in a short period of time and within a limited area through collaboration between scientists, the public and nature enthusiasts. The most prominent example of a large-scale worldwide urban BioBlitz event is the City Nature Challenge (CNC). This study investigates whether and how BioBlitz events, specifically the CNC Berlin, can complement existing biodiversity monitoring by addressing three key questions: (1) how species composition compares to existing datasets, (2) how data quality varies across taxonomic groups and participants, and (3) how participant engagement shapes data generation. We further assess taxonomic biases in the CNC Berlin 2023 and 2024 datasets to evaluate their contribution to urban biodiversity monitoring. For a better understanding, the CNC Berlin data is compared with a reference dataset from GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility), an international open-access database compiling biodiversity records from multiple observation platforms. The reference dataset is limited to Berlin, covers a comparable time period and includes biodiversity data from a number of Citizen Science observation platforms. Results: Participation in CNC Berlin has increased substantially, with the number of contributors rising from 184 in 2023 to 361 in 2024, reflecting growing involvement. Analysis of the uploaded observations during CNC 2023 and 2024 in Berlin revealed clear differences in participant activity levels: while highly active individuals were few, they contributed a substantial portion of the total observations. The comparison of the observed species in taxonomic groups from CNC Berlin 2023 and 2024 with the GBIF reference dataset revealed the impact of highly active species experts participating in BioBlitz events on particular species groups like fungi and lichens. This highlights the influence of species experts on BioBlitz datasets. In total birds, reptiles, fish, and mammals were more likely to reach “Research Grade” status on iNaturalist, whereas arachnids, protozoans, insects, and chromista had substantially lower Research-Grade rates. Of the 2,440 species listed in the GBIF reference dataset, 1,027 species (42%) were also recorded during CNC Berlin 2023 and 2024. Observations included threatened amphibians, such as the Spadefoot Toad (Pelobates fuscus) and the Great Crested Newt (Triturus cristatus), rare birds like the Whinchat (Saxicola rubetra), and several invasive species, including crayfish (Procambarus spp.) and Giant Hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum). Notably, the potentially invasive mysid Hemimysis anomala was recorded in Berlin for the first time ever in 2024. As observations from CNC 2023 had more time to reach “Research Grade” than those from 2024, differences between years should be interpreted with caution. Conclusion: BioBlitz events and Citizen Science in general, can provide valuable data that can complement traditional biodiversity monitoring and help to close research gaps, particularly by documenting endangered, invasive and non-native species, and other conservation-relevant taxa. We encourage other researchers to investigate large BioBlitz datasets like CNCs in other parts of the world or even comprehensively on a larger geographic scale. Keywords: Citizen science, Biodiversity, BioBlitz, Ecology, Conservation, Participation, Monitoring.
39466	Pradhan S., Dash S., Sahoo B. & Rath B. (2025): Photobiont diversity in lichen symbiosis from northern Odisha (India). - International Journal on Algae, 27(3): 261–272. https://doi.org/10.1615/InterJAlgae.v27.i3.40. The aim of the present study is to isolate and analyse the photobionts from lichens in different habitats of Northern Odisha. A total of 24 species of broadly distributed lichen genera i.e., Parmotrema A. Massal., Lecanora Ach., Coccocarpia Pers., Graphis Adans., Phaeographis Müll.Arg., Trypethelium Spreng., Parmelia Ach., Dirinaria (Tuck.) Clem., Buellia Alyssum L., Heterodermia Trevis, Hyperphyscia Müll. Arg., Letrouitia Hafellner & Bellem., Malmidia Kalb, Xanthoria (Fr.) Th.Fr. from different families spread across the floristic zones of the northern Odisha sector, were selected for photobiont isolation. Trebouxia Pyum, Trentepohlia Mart., Nostoc Vaucher ex Bornet et Flahault, Chroococcus Nägeli, and Scytonema C. Agardh ex Bornet & Flahault are found in lichens as a photobiont. All photobionts were further identified based on morphological and molecular approaches, including 18S rRNA, 16S rRNA, and ITS sequences which showed a wide differentiation of species diversity in Trebouxia, Trentepohlia and Chroococcus. Further to this study, all photobiont cultures were preserved for future biotechnological prospection. Keywords: diversity, isolation, lichen, Northern Odisha, India, photobiont.
39465	Pradhan S., Dash S., Sahoo B., Parida S., Upreti D.K. & Rath B. (2026): Thymoquinone from lichen Dirinaria frostii (Tuck.): A new promising antimicrobial compound. - Current Microbiology, 83: 160 [18 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00284-026-04746-z. The present study reports the presence of thymoquinone (TQ), a promising benzoquinone compound, in the lichen Dirinaria frostii (strain DF_MSCBU, NCBI-accession no. PP955960), collected from Similipal National Park, India. The extract of D. frostii was subjected to GCMS analysis and detected the presence of thymoquinone. Further, purification of the TQ fraction was carried out using HPLC against a standard thymoquinone reference. FTIR analysis identified the key functional groups. In addition, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (¹H NMR and ¹³C NMR) spectroscopy was performed to determine the structure and composition of the molecule. The purified TQ was then used for antibacterial assays against pathogenic bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, and Vibrio cholerae following the MIC method showed pathogen inhibition at different incubation time, of both Gram +ve and Gram -ve bacteria. Thymoquinone showed significant bactericidal activity compared to the standard antibiotics azithromycin, streptomycin, and erythromycin in a dose-dependent manner. This study demonstrates occurrence of thymoquinone from D. frostii as a novel finding and opens new possibilities for its therapeutic applications in the future.
39464	Pradhan S., Dash S., Sahoo B. & Rath B. (2026): Range extension of the lichenized ascomycete, Cladonia fruticulosa Kremp., 1882 (Lecanoromycetes: Lecanorales: Cladoniaceae), from Similipal Biosphere Reserve of Odisha. - Journal of Threatened Taxa, 18(3): 28594–28599. https://doi.org/10.11609/jott.9846.18.3.28594-28599. The lichen diversity of the Similipal Biosphere Reserve in Odisha remains underexplored, particularly for fruticose lichens genus Cladonia P. Browne. The present study aims to document a specimen collected from the high-altitude region of the reserve. Morphological observations, chemical analysis, and molecular phylogenetic methods were employed for species identification. Detailed descriptions, illustrations, habitat, and ecology are provided. Previously, no specific fruticose lichen species was reported from Similipal, and the present identification evidence confirms the first record of this species from Odisha. Keywords: Diversity, documentation, fruticose, habitat, high altitude, identification, lichen, morphology, phylogeny, species.
39463	Stridvall L. & Stridvall A. (2010): Lavfloran på kyrkogårdar i Västra Götalands län. - Lavbulletinen, 2010/1: 1–87 . http://www.stridvall.se/la/publications/Lavbulletinen-2010_1.pdf. [in Swedish] The lichen flora of cemeteries / churchyards in Västra Götaland County (south-western Sweden), including provinces of Bohuslän, Dalsland, Värmland and Västergötland
39462	Schiefelbein U. (2022): Antarktische Flechten im Herbarium der Universität Rostock. - Archiv Natur- und Landeskunde Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, 57: 130–133 . . Antarctic lichens in the herbarium of the University of Rostock. The lichens were determined that Dr. Andreas Bick had collected in the surroundings of the Russian Antarctica station Bellingshausen between January 1986 and March 1987, and that are deposited in the Botanical Garden of Rostock University. Altogether, 24 species have been identified. Concerning the growth form, 12 species are crustose, 8 species fruticose and 4 species foliose lichens. Keywords: Antarctica, biodiversity, herbarium, lichenized fungi.
39461	Kantvilas G., Tibell S. & Tibell L. (2026): Chaenotheca meridionalis, a new calicioid lichen from Australasia. - Muelleria, 44: 62–70. . Chaenotheca meridionalis Tibell & Kantvilas is described as new, based on morphological characters and ITS-based phylogenetic data. Maximum Likelihood analysis was run on 62 taxa and four C. meridionalis sequences received maximum Ultrafast bootstrap support within the strongly supported ‘chrysocephala’ group. Chaenotheca meridionalis differs from its close relative, C. chlorella, by its taller apothecia, 1.04−2.04 mm high, versus 0.71–0.94 mm in C. chlorella, and wider ascospores, 3.25–4.75 μm versus 2.89–3.81 μm in C. chlorella. It inhabits decorticated wood in temperate forests and is widely distributed in Australasia. Key words: biodiversity, Coniocybomycetes, lichenised fungi, new species, molecular taxonomy.
39460	Roux C., Boussereau J.-Y., Bourdon C., Pinault P., Daval G. & Beudin T. (2026): Excursion lichénologique en Ariège (juin 2025). - Bulletin de la Société Linnéenne de Provence, 77, a05: 1−22. . A three–day lichenological field trip to Ariège in June 2025, supplemented by several other observations, yielded 291 taxa (254 lichens and 37 non–lichenized lichenicolous fungi), including two seemingly undescribed species, one national novelty, 7 novelties from the French Pyrenees, and 88 departmental novelties. The total number of taxa in Ariège increased from 727 to 824, a significant rise, but still well below the thousand possible taxa estimated by Roux et al. (2025).
39459	Díaz R., Filippini E., Peralta M.A. & Rodriguez J.M. (2026): Determinants of lichen diversity and community assembly along elevational gradients in Central Argentine mountains. - Cryptogamie, Mycologie, 47(3): 21–47. https://doi.org/10.5252/cryptogamie-mycologie2026v47a3. The distinctive features of alpine ecosystems, along with complex evolutionary and migration patterns, contribute significantly to the remarkable species richness found within these environments. This study aimed to investigate the environmental effects of elevation and microsite characteristics on the diversity and community structure of saxicolous lichens in mountain ecosystems. We also explored the hypothesis that lichen species may migrate to more sheltered microsites in response to climate change. We surveyed 406 plots across seven elevation levels (900 to 2700 m a.s.l.), documenting saxicolous lichen species richness and community composition. Microsite factors such as rock aspect, inclination, and sun exposure were recorded. Statistical analyses included generalized linear mixed models (GLMMs) for richness and community weighted mean trait (CWM) by growth form, as well as multivariate analyses (CCA and NMS) to assess the influence of environmental variables on lichen community composition. We identified 195 lichen species, with significantly lower richness at 900 m a.s.l. compared to higher elevations. Richness was also greater on steep and south-facing rocks. Crustose CWM varied significantly with rock aspect, while foliose and fruticose CWMs were influenced by rock inclination. Multivariate analyses indicated that elevation, rock inclination, rock aspect, and sun exposure significantly shaped the community structure. The study highlights the combined influence of macro- and micro-environmental factors on lichen diversity. Crustose species tolerate harsher conditions, while foliose and fruticose lichens prefer steeper, south-facing microsites. These findings underscore the importance of considering both scales of environmental variation when analyzing the assembly and biodiversity of lichen communities, especially under scenarios of climate change. Key words: Climate change, ecological niches, endemism patterns, environmental gradient, lichen diversity, microsite, mountain ecosystems.
39458	Gan Y., Timdal E., Wei S., Zhang S., Shi Y., Wang L. & Wang X. (2026): Three new species and two new records of Thalloidima (Ramalinaceae, Ascomycota) in China. - Phytotaxa, 759(3): 245–260. https://doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.759.3.4. The lichen genus Thalloidima (Ramalinaceae, Ascomycota) is reported as new to China, with specimens primarily collected from the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. Through an integrative approach combining morphological, chemical, and molecular phylogenetic analyses of nrDNA ITS sequences, three species new to science are described: T. lobulatum Yu X. Gan & Xin Y. Wang, T. qinghaiense Yu X. Gan & Xin Y. Wang, and T. triseptatum Yu X. Gan & Xin Y. Wang. Additionally, T. sedifolium and T. squamatum are recorded in China for the first time. These discoveries bring the total number of recognised species within Thalloidima to 21. Critical diagnostic characters, including ascospore septation, thallus pruina development, and substrate specificity, are detailed and illustrated. A comprehensive taxonomic key to all currently known species of the genus is also provided. Key words: Lichenized fungi, Taxonomy, Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, New genus record, Phylogeny.
39457	Singh S.P., Upreti D.K. & Nayaka S. (2026): Thelenella tropica: A new lichen species from India. - Phytotaxa, 759(3): 222–226. https://doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.759.3.2. Thelenella tropica, a pyrenocarpous lichen is described as new to science from India. It was collected from Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh. The new species is characterized by corticolous habitat, pertusarioid perithecia, oblong ellipsoid, muriform, I−, KI−, hyaline, 52–65 × 18–23 µm ascospores. An updated world key to the corticolous species of Thelenella is also provided. Key words: asia, Biodiversity, lichenized fungi, Perithecioid, thelenellaceae.
39456	Torres-Benítez A., Ortega-Valencia J.E., Salazar J.R., Monje K., Ley-Martínez J., Vargas-Arana G. & Simirgiotis M.J. (2026): Chemical composition, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activity of the Antarctic lichen Leptogium puberulum: A combination of metabolomic, in vitro, and in silico approaches. - International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 27(11): 4822 [26 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27114822. Lichenized fungi are a source of secondary metabolites with multiple biological potential. The objective of the study was to determine the chemical composition, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activity of the hydroalcoholic extract of the Antarctic lichen Leptogium puberulum through metabolomic, in vitro, and in silico analyses. Seventeen compounds were tentatively identified using UHPLC-ESI-QToF-MS. The phenolic composition yielded 6.356 mg GAE/g, and antioxidant activity assays showed IC50 values for DPPH• and ABTS•+ of 1187.149 and 207.00 µg/mL, respectively, along with 15.845 µmol Trolox/g for ORAC and 21.925 µmol Trolox/g for FRAP. The in silico evaluation was performed using OSIRIS Data Warrior, ProTox 3.0, and SwissTargetPrediction, identifying 9,10,12,13,14-pentahydroxytetracosanoic acid (PHTA), 9,10,12,13-tetrahydroxytricosanoic acid (THTA), 9,10,12,13-tetrahydroxyheneicosanoic acid (THHA), and 9,10,12,13-tetrahydroxydocosanoic acid (THDA) as the most promising compounds. These metabolites showed favorable pharmacokinetic properties, with no anticipated toxicological risks. Subsequently, their affinity for the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme was evaluated by molecular docking with AutoDock Vina software version 1.2.3, and the most stable protein–ligand complexes were analyzed to characterize key interactions within the active site and subjected to molecular dynamics simulations with YASARA software version 19.1.27 for 100 ns. Overall, these results indicate that selected metabolites from L. puberulum may act as potential COX-2 inhibitors, supporting their relevance as lichen-derived anti-inflammatory agents and warranting further pharmacological investigation. Keywords: Antarctica; extract; bioactive compounds; metabolomics; biological potential; pharmacokinetic properties; molecular docking; COX-2 inhibition.
39455	Skult H. (1984): The Parmelia omphalodes (Ascomycetes) complex in Eastern Fennoscandia. Chemical and morphological variation. - Annales Botanici Fennici, 21: 117–142. . Wide chemical variation was shown by Parmelia omphalodes (L.) Ach., especially when minor and accessory phenolic compounds were included. Three subspecies recognized within P. omphalodes. viz. subsp. omphalodes. subsp. pinnatifida (Kurok.) Skult, comb, nova, and subsp. discordons (Nyl.) Skult, comb. nova. A fourth subspecies may possibly be separated in the arctic regions. Although the subspecies are usually clearly distinguishable, in certain areas where their ranges overlap specimens can found which are intermediate in chemistry and/or morphology. The populations of omphalodes in the southwest of Finland are particularly variable, since all three subspecies meet in that region. The distribution of each subspecies in Eastern Fennoscandia is mapped. Key words: lichen. Parmelia, chemical variation, phenols, eastern Fennoscandia.
39454	Skult H. (1985): A new subspecies of Parmelia omphalodes (Ascomycetes) described from the Arctic. - Annales Botanici Fennici, 22: 201–205. . The lichen Parmelia omphalodes subsp. glacialis Skult, subsp. nova, is reported from the Arctic; it is particularly common on the arctic islands. Its major phenolic constituents are salazinic and norstictic acids and atranorin. Key words: lichen, Parmelia, phenols, arctic.
39453	Essadki Y., Darrag E.M., Zerrifi S.E.A., Haida M., Krimech A., Martins R.., Campos A., Vasconcelos V., Bouaïcha N., Baçaoui A., Meddich A., Oudra B., Tazart Z. & El Khalloufi F. (2026): Lichen extracts containing volatile compounds induce oxidative stress and modulate the growth of Microcystis aeruginosa and Chlorella sorokiniana. - International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 27(11): 4790 [32 p.] . https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27114790. This study evaluates volatile extracts (HE1 and HE2) from the lichen Pseudevernia furfuracea as eco-friendly agents to control algal proliferation, specifically targeting the cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa and the green microalga Chlorella sorokiniana. Both extracts exhibited potent anti-microalgal activity against the two species with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) ranging from 375 to 750 µg/mL. Furthermore, both extracts reduced cell density by more than 98% after eight days of treatment. Chlorophyll a and protein levels decreased significantly (>80%) in both species, indicating suppression of pigment synthesis. However, their physiological responses were distinct: M. aeruginosa underwent early acute oxidative stress and severe membrane damage, while C. sorokiniana exhibited delayed oxidative activation and a negative growth rate, suggesting non-lytic metabolic inhibition. An in silico study by molecular docking of the most abundant compounds identified in these volatile extracts, such as terpenoids (abietatriene, δ-cadinene) and a phenolic compound (atraric acid), showed that these compounds interact with vital cellular targets in M. aeruginosa and C. sorokiniana and likely contribute to the effects observed in these two species. Predictive toxicity by applying the ADMET framework confirmed the favorable bioavailability and low acute toxicity of these volatile compounds. Therefore, P. furfuracea volatiles are promising, species-specific, and environmentally safe candidates for mitigating aquatic algal proliferation through targeted oxidative and metabolic interference. Keywords: Pseudevernia furfuracea; volatile organic compounds (VOCs); anti-cyanobacterial activity; anti-microalgae; oxidative stress; algal proliferation; molecular docking.
39452	Guan Z., Wang Y., Geng Y., Wang Y., Hou L., Tian X. & Pan J. (2026): Analysis of microbial communities and microbial preservation of the Qilin Screen Wall and Text Brick Wall in the Jinshanling Great Wall. - Microorganisms, 14(5): 1056 [24 p.]. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms14051056. The Jinshanling Great Wall is an important part of the Ming Great Wall, the most important material cultural heritage of China, and is currently facing a significant threat of microbial degradation due to the widespread biological weathering of open-air masonry buildings. This study focuses on the Qilin Screen Wall and Text Brick Wall of the Jinshanling Great Wall, utilizing scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and metabarcoding analyses to reveal the diverse microbial communities coexisting on the masonry surfaces, including various lichens, molds, and bacteria. Twelve fungal strains were successfully isolated. The antimicrobial experiment results indicated that 0.6% isothiazolinone-based antimicrobial BC01, 50 mg/mL carvacrol and 50 mg/mL thymol exhibited a certain degree of antimicrobial activity against these strains. Overall, this study has laid a solid foundation for microbial control of the masonry Great Wall through in-depth analysis of microbial community structure and screening of highly effective antimicrobials. Keywords: masonry ancient architecture; biodeterioration; microbial community; antimicrobials; cultural relic conservation.
39451	Isocrono D., Cogoni A., Vizzini A., Totti C., Aleffi M., Armeli Minicante S., Benesperi R., Boccardo F., Boemo A., Bonanno R., Bonifazio C., von Brackel W., Briozzo I., Canali G., Cancellieri L., Cantonati M., Casalino D., Ceseri S., Cos D., D’Aleo F., Dalle Fratte M., De Giuseppe A.B., Di Nuzzo L., Dovana F., Fačkovcová Z., Gavarro G., Gheza G., Guazzini L., Hafellner J., Malíček J., Musarella C.M., Nimis P.L., Paoli L., Passalacqua N.G., Patera G., Potenza G., Prosser F., Puntillo D., Ravera S., Rodi E.S., Romanov R., Scortegagna S., Sguazzin F., Sicoli G., Silvano G., Spitale D., Stringa Basile C., Tretiach M. & Vannini A. (2026): Notulae to the Italian flora of algae, bryophytes, fungi and lichens: 21. - Italian Botanist, 21: 173–194. https://doi.org/10.3897/italianbotanist.21.196260. In this contribution, new data concerning algae, bryophytes, fungi and lichens of the Italian flora are presented. It includes new record and confirmations for the algal genera Chara, Closterium, and Ulva, the bryophyte genera Buxbaumia, Campylopus, Crossidium, Cryphaea, Dicranella, Dicranum, Flexitrichum, Geheebia, Grimmia, Lewinskya, Ptychostomum, Riccia, Schistidium, and Taxiphyllum, the fungal genera Clavaria, Inocybe, Lepiota, Phacopsis, Phloeomana, Tremella, and Zyzygomyces, and the lichen genera Anema, Bagliettoa, Cladonia, Gyalecta, Lepraria, Phaeophyscia, Polyblastia, Porina, Psilolechia, Scytinium, Swinscowia, Synalissina, and Thyrea. Keywords: Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, Bryidae, Charophyta, Chlorophyta.
39450	Ezhkin A.K., Yakovchenko L.S., Davydov E.A. & Kaganov V.V. (2026): A revision of the lichen genus Thelotrema Ach. (Thelotremataceae) in the Sakhalin Region, Far East of Russia. - Turczaninowia, 29(1): 167–174. https://doi.org/10.14258/turczaninowia.29.1.21. As a result of a revision of the lichen genus Thelotrema in the Sakhalin Region (Russian Far East), two species are reported as new to the region. Thelotrema diplotrema is recorded for the first time in Russia, and T. suecicum is reported for the first time in Asia. T. diplotrema previously known only from evergreen forests in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Australia, and Asia, was found in an old-growth forest with bamboo understory on the bark of deciduous trees on Kunashir Island. This finding represents the northernmost locality of the species in the temperate zone. T. suecicum, a widespread lichen of rainforests and wet montane forests in the cool-temperate zones of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres (Europe, North and South America, Australia, and New Zealand), was collected in a warm, humid riparian forest on the bark of Alnus hirsuta in southern Sakhalin Island and in an oak forest on the bark of Quercus crispula on Iturup Island. Following this revision, three species of Thelotrema are confirmed for the Sakhalin Region, including the previously known T. lepadinum. Detailed morphological, anatomical, and ecological descriptions are provided, along with illustrations, diagnostic features of similar species, and an identification key for the species of Thelotrema and morphologically related taxa occurring in the region. Keywords: broad-leaved forest, cool-temperate zone, corticolous lichens, old-growth forest, tropical and subtropical lichens.
39449	Tabakina V.V., Gagarina L.V., Chesnokov S.V. & Prokopiev I.A. (2026): A first report of Acarospora rosulata (Acarosporaceae) in Russia from Yakutia. - Turczaninowia, 29(1): 116–123. https://doi.org/10.14258/turczaninowia.29.1.15 . During the study of the lichen biota of Yakutia, Acarospora rosulata (Th. Fr.) H. Magn. was identified on the basis of morphological, anatomical, secondary metabolites and molecular data for the first time in Russia. Phylogenetic analysis based on ITS sequences revealed that the studied specimens form a well-supported clade (BS value = 86%) with specimens from Mongolia, USA, and Norway. The studied specimens are characterized by a brown, shiny, squamulose areolate thallus, sometimes with some outer lobes, numerous apothecia immersed in the areoles, a well-developed exciple, simple ellipsoid ascospores (4–5 × 1.5–2.5 μm) and the content of gyrophoric acid as the main substance. Lecanoric and hiascic acids are reported for the first time in the species. A comparative analysis of samples from Yakutia is carried out with descriptions by other authors. Since the original description of the species did not include a holotype, the article also provides a lectotypification based on the original material from Norway. A specimen stored in the herbarium of Uppsala University (UPS) was designated as the lectotype. A comparison with related species is also provided. Keywords: biodiversity, new record, lectotypification, lichens, Russia, Yakutia.
39448	Урбанавичюс Г.П. & Урбанавичене И.Н. [Urbanavichus G.P. & Urbanavichene I.N.] (2026): Sphinctrina paramerae (Mycocaliciales, Sphinctrinacea) – новый для России вид и другие виды рода Sphinctrina на Кавказе [Sphinctrina paramerae (Mycocaliciales, Sphinctrinacea) – a new species for Russia and other records of Sphinctrina from the Caucasus]. - Turczaninowia, 29(1): 14–19. https://doi.org/10.14258/turczaninowia.29.1.3. [in Russian with English abstract: ] This article provides information on the first records of lichenicolous fungus Sphinctrina paramerae in Russia. This species parasitizes Pertusaria paramerae thallus. The studied specimens were collected in the Sub-Mediterranean formations in the Utrish Reserve, Abrau Peninsula, Krasnodar Territory (Russia). Morphological description, photographs and information on the ecology and distribution of this species are provided. Sphinctrina leucopoda and S. turbinata are new to the Utrish Nature Reserve. Distribution of the pointed above Caucasian species is reviewed and a key for the identification of five species of the genus Sphinctrina recorded from the Caucasus is given. Keywords: Abrau Peninsula, calicioid species, new records, Sphinctrina.
39447	Kaganov V.V., Yakovchenko L.S. & Ezhkin A.K. (2026): The genus Anthracothecium (Pyrenulaceae) in Russia. - Turczaninowia, 29(1): 80–84. https://doi.org/10.14258/turczaninowia.29.1.11. The genus Anthracothecium is re-reported for the territory of Russia. The article discusses that A. speciosum f. speciosum was mistakenly included in the lists of lichens of Russia, of the south of the Far East and of Shikotan Isl., and also that A. speciosum f. iturupiense morphologically and anatomically corresponds more closely to the genus Pyrenula. Thus, the tropical genus Anthracothecium is represented in Russia by one species, Anthracothecium australiense reported here to the Kunashir Island. This is a first record of the species in Russia which has previously been known to Australia, Oceania (New Guinea), Asia (Japan and China), North and South America (Brazil, Argentina). The species is characterized by large, brown muriform ascospores with thin walls, as well as immersed, erumpent, and semi-immersed, black, globose perithecioid ascomata (0.5–)0.7–1.0 mm wide with a short neck and lateral ostiole. The data on distribution, ecology, and distinctive features of the species as well as photos are provided.
39446	Lendemer J.C. (2026): Recent literature on lichens—280. - Bryologist, 129(1): 73–83. https://doi.org/10.1639/0007-2745-129.1.073. bibliography
39445	Ferrari F.R., Villa P.M., Putzke J., Robinson S.A., Francelino M.R. & Schaefer C.E.G.R. (2026): Habitat-mediated filtering, rather than soil properties, shapes plant community diversity on Nelson Island, Maritime Antarctica. - Journal of Vegetation Science, 37(3): e70145 [15 p.] . https://doi.org/10.1111/jvs.70145. Aims: Environmental filtering is a key framework in vegetation science; yet, disentangling the relative roles of habitat and soil-mediated filters remains challenging in Antarctic cryptogamic communities. At the regional scale in Antarctica, climate is the primary driver of plant community diversity and structure. However, at a local scale, topography and soil properties are also crucial. This study aimed to assess how habitat-mediated (including substrate type and nesting-related disturbance), and soil properties act as environmental filters shaping cryptogamic species richness and community composition on rocky outcrops. We evaluated the relative contribution of habitat structure and edaphic variation to plant distribution across substrate gradients. Location: Harmony Point, Nelson Island, Maritime Antarctica. Methods: We conducted detailed vegetation and soil surveys across three rocky outcrops with varying nesting activity. Plant frequency, coverage, and richness were quantified in 121 plots using a grid-based approach. Soil samples were collected and analyzed for physical and chemical properties. To quantify environmental gradients, we summarized edaphic variables using multivariate analysis. Rarefaction/extrapolation curves, community composition analysis, and linear mixed-effects models were used to test whether habitat-mediated and soil-mediated filters predict species richness and community composition variability. Results: Habitat-mediated filtering strongly influenced species richness and turnover. Sites with active giant petrel nests exhibited higher nutrient availability and distinct vegetation assemblages compared to areas without nesting activity. Substrate type also played a key role, with species composition differing markedly between rocky and soil substrates. These patterns indicate that both soil fertility and microhabitat heterogeneity contribute to the spatial variability in community structure. Conclusions: Our results further reveal that changes in substrate type across the outcrops promote high species turnover between the three rocky fragments. Contrary to patterns commonly reported for Maritime Antarctica, soil properties alone did not explain richness or composition, suggesting that habitat-level processes override edaphic constraints at a fine spatial scale. Keywords: Antarctic vegetation | community composition | ecological filters | environmental heterogeneity | ornithogenic soils | plant species richness | soil properties | topographic gradients.
39444	Rawat S., Kumar N., Quyoom B., ul Haq M. & Peer L.A. (2026): Multivariate chemoprospecting of five ethnobotanically important Himalayan lichens identifies Parmotrema austrosinense as a promising source of phenolic antioxidants. - Chemistry and Biodiversity, 23(5): e71264 [14 p.] . https://doi.org/10.1002/cbdv.71264. Lichens are an underexplored reservoir of nutritionally and pharmacologically relevant metabolites. This study provides one of the first comprehensive multivariate profiles of five ethnobotanically important lichen species (Lobaria retigera, Dirinaria consimilis, Parmotrema austrosinense, Ramalina conduplicans, and Usnea orientalis) from Uttarakhand, India, using an integrated screening approach to evaluate and rank their bioactive potential. A combined analysis of nutritional components (protein, carbohydrates, and essential minerals), phytochemicals (total phenolic and flavonoid content), preliminary antioxidant screening (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging assay), and metabolite profiling (gas chromatography-mass spectrometry) was performed. Our results ranked and objectively identified P. austrosinense as the most promising lead species, exhibiting the highest total phenolic content (14.08 ± 2.53 mg gallic acid equivalents/g), flavonoid content (1.80 ± 0.23 mg catechin equivalents/g), protein content (24.36 ± 1.30 mg/g), and the most effective DPPH radical scavenging activity (83.05% inhibition). Although based solely on in vitro DPPH data, this screening establishes a prioritized ranking for further validation. Principal Component Analysis confirmed that these antioxidant traits were strongly intercorrelated. This integrated metabolomic screening approach establishes a robust chemotaxonomic and nutritional ranking, highlighting P. austrosinense as a prime candidate for subsequent in-depth investigations. Keywords: antioxidant activity; thnobotany; lichen; mineral content; Parmotrema austrosinense; phytochemical profiling.
39443	Chowaniec K., Szafrańska K. & Skubała K. (2026): Biocrust heterogeneity drives water balance in the topsoil of temperate sandy post-mining ecosystem. - Journal of Soil Sediments, 26: 181 [18 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11368-026-04386-7. Purpose: Sandy habitats in temperate regions include a range of anthropogenic and semi-natural ecosystems, such as post-mining areas. Such environments face severe ecological constraints due to coarse soil texture, low nutrient content, and poor water retention. Among natural recovery processes, biological soil crusts (biocrusts) play a key role in shaping soil hydrology and surface stability. Keywords: Biological soil crust · Temperate climate · Water balance · Ecosystem resilience · Post-mining ecosystem. Methods: In this study, we investigated water-related traits and functional parameters of three biocrust types: algae-, moss-, and lichen-dominated, developing in temperate sandy post-mining ecosystem. Results: Our findings revealed significant ecohydrological differences between biocrusts dominated by various photoautotrophs. Lichen-dominated biocrusts showed high water-holding capacity (145.93%), vapor adsorption (0.197 mm) and evaporation cumulative amounts (4.768 mm), together with elevated dehydrogenase activity (284.23 µg TPF g− 1 DW), total exopolysaccharide concentration (3.83 mg g− 1 DW) and total chlorophyll content (156.63 µg g− 1 DW). Their high evaporation rate (0.984 mm h⁻¹) may intensify short-term water fluctuations in sandy topsoils. In contrast, algae-dominated biocrusts showed consistently low values across studied water-related traits (e.g. vapor adsorption 0.02 mm), as well as low evaporation rate (0.294 mm h− 1) indicating prolonged surface moisture retention. Moss-dominated biocrusts showed moderate vapor adsorption (0.051 mm) and intermediate evaporation (0.859 mm h⁻¹), offering a more balanced hydrological profile. Conclusions: Our findings showed that different biocrust types spontaneously developing in post-mining sandy ecosystem contribute to maintaining the heterogeneity of the topsoil in terms of water holding capacity and the ability to absorb and evaporate water. This functional heterogeneity can help stabilize soil water dynamics, mitigate extreme fluctuations, and support more resilient vegetation development over time, and may be key to enhancing ecosystem resilience in temperate sandy soils.
39442	Kurakov A.V., Bibikov N.M., Bilanenko E.N., Kokaeva L.Yu., Abakumov E.V., Zherebiatyeva N.V. & Soromotin A.V. (2026): Mycobiota of Podzol Turbic under Reindeer Pastures in Tundra of the Yamal Peninsula. - Eurasian Soil Science, 59: 102 [15 p.]. https://doi.org/10.1134/S106422932560558X. The diversity and structure of fungal communities in the Entic Podzol (Turbic) under variously disturbed reindeer pastures on the Yamal Peninsula were examined by the cultural method and DNA metabarcoding. We isolated 29 species from 16 genera of fungi assigned to the phyla Ascomycota and Mucoromycota by plating method and 434 OTUs of seven phyla (Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, Glomeromycota, Mortierellomycota, Mucoromycota, Olpidiomycota, and Rozellomycota) by DNA metabarcoding (251 OTUs were identified at the species level). In total, 276 species from 214 genera were discovered in this soil. Only four species were found by both methods, and this again indicated the need to use fundamentally different approaches to assess fungal diversity. The OTUs of fungi were classified by the FungalTraits database into 15 ecological-trophic groups. Microbiota of the Entic Podzol (Turbic) under pastures was dominated by soil and litter saprotrophs and by ectomycorrhizal and lichenized species, which were followed by plant and animal pathogens and then by xylotrophic saprotrophs and lichen pathogens, and coprophilous fungi comprised a smaller proportion. Both methods demonstrated that as pastures degraded, species diversity in the soil decreased, the taxonomic and trophic structure of the fungal biota significantly changed, and a smaller number of species dominated. This was especially pronounced, when the soils under slightly and strongly disturbed pastures were compared. The significance of these changes was confirmed by statistical analysis of the data. Changes of trophic and taxonomic groups of fungi in the Podzol Turbic during the degradation of reindeer pastures are discussed. Keywords: fungi, lichens, soil, degradation, overgrazing of reindeer pastures.
39441	Pérez-Rodrigo M., Moya P., Arenzana C., Garrido-Benavent I., Barreno E., Mark K., Peksa O., Westberg M., Carrasco P. & Marco F. (2026): Poikilohydria, polyols, and homeoviscosity: lichen metabolomic remodeling across environmental gradients . - Frontiers in Plant Science, 17: 1792494 [14 p.]. doi: 10.3389/fpls.2026.1792494. Introduction: Lichens are poikilohydric organisms whose biochemistry is strongly shaped by environmental conditions, yet their metabolome-wide adaptations across habitats remain unexplored. Methods: Here, we established a continent-scale reference for the in-situ metabolome of the model lichen Ramalina farinacea, from thalli collected across six European regions during winter and summer, using untargeted GC-MS. Results: In total, 187 small molecules were annotated, including a compact core of 12 metabolites shared across all sites and seasons. Notably, the most abundant and core metabolites have recognized osmoprotective roles. The metabolome was primarily centered on polyols: arabitol was the predominant metabolite (49.9% of total relative abundance), followed by ribitol, sucrose, sorbitol, and mannitol. Multivariate analyses revealed season, region, and climate-similarity groups as the main drivers of metabolomic dissimilarity. GABA and mannose were consistent summer markers, while linoleic acid and arabitol emerged as the top regional and climatic markers, respectively. Glycerol levels increased towards colder regimes alongside monoglycerides and mono/polyunsaturated fatty acids, reflecting patterns consistent with homeoviscous adaptation. Hierarchical clustering resolved coordinated metabolite modules that distinguish cold- continental from warm-Mediterranean regimes while preserving region-specific chemical fingerprints. Pathway over-representation analyses converged on alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism. This and other differential pathways indicated coupled adjustments in carbon handling and stress physiology. Discussion: This is the first continent-scale characterization of low-molecular- weight metabolomic variation in a lichen, revealing environmentally linked metabolic remodeling beyond the traditionally studied secondary metabolites and defining new chemoenvironmental markers as the metabolic basis of poikilohydric resilience in lichens. Keywords: arabitol, GABA, GC-MS, glycerol, lichen metabolomics, linoleic acid, mannose.
39440	Roux C. (2026): Leprocaulon pseudocalcicola Cl. Roux et Magain sp. nov. (Ascomycota, Leprocaulaceae). Addendum. - Bulletin de la Société Linnéenne de Provence, 77, a03: 1. doi : 10.5281/zenodo.19998505. Genbank entries ommited in the original paper are added
39439	Kaufmann S., Hauck M. & Leuschner C. (2018): Effects of natural forest dynamics on vascular plant, bryophyte, and lichen diversity in primeval Fagus sylvatica forests and comparison with production forests. - Journal of Ecology, 106(6): 2421–2434. https://doi.org/10.1111/1365-2745.12981. Stand structure, mean tree age, deadwood amount and microclimate all change markedly in the course of natural forest dynamics. The last remaining primeval forests of the temperate forest biome are valuable study objects to investigate the effects of forest dynamics and management on forest structure and function as well as phytodiversity, which is not sufficiently understood. Three pairs of Fagus sylvatica primeval and production forests in eastern Slovakia were selected for studying the effects of natural forest development stages on vascular plant, bryophyte, and lichen species richness and composition. We further compared the diversity patterns in the initial, optimal and terminal stages of forest development with those of nearby production forests. The plot-level species richness of epiphytic bryophytes and lichens increased from the initial to the terminal stage, but only lichens exhibited a significantly higher cumulative species richness (γ diversity) in the later (optimal and terminal) stages. No increase in species richness from the initial to the terminal stage was found for deadwood-inhabiting epiphytes and the ground-layer vascular plants. Canonical correspondence analyses identified characteristic bryophyte and lichen species for the different development stages, while the bulk of vascular ground layer species occurred across all stages with no stage preference. Stem diameter was an even more important driver of epiphyte diversity and species composition than the development stage. All stages of the primeval forests (including the initial) were more species-rich in epiphytes and, when investigating larger plot numbers, also in vascular plants than the production forests. Synthesis. In primeval forests of European beech, plant species richness did not differ significantly between the consecutive forest development stages, while species composition did. This is attributable to the small-scale mosaic structure of the forest, rapid gap closure by beech, and the continuity of deadwood across the stages, which reduces spatio-temporal differences in microhabitat availability in the forest. Bryophytes and lichens are species-richer, and vascular plants at least similarly rich, in the primeval as compared to the production forests, if the study area is sufficiently large.

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