Towards resolving the paradox of lichen symbiosis

• Applicant: Professorin Dr. Silke Werth
• Subject Area: Ecology and Biodiversity of Plants and Ecosystems ; Evolution and Systematics of Plants and Fungi ; Organismic Interactions, Chemical Ecology and Microbiomes of Plant Systems ; Plant Physiology
• Term: since 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 531156553

This project focuses on the phenomenon which is now recognized as a central driving force behind evolution across the entire tree of life - the mutualistic symbiosis. While a plethora of symbiotic systems is increasingly being recognized and explored, surprisingly little is known about how these associations are formed and maintained. This project aims to fill this gap in our knowledge by focusing on a major group of phototrophic symbiotic associations, terricolous lichen communities hosting green algae as their endosymbionts. Recently, in contrast to a general paradigm in the field, we revealed that fungal hosts frequently do not select their algal partners from a regional pool of species, identifying the paradox of lichen symbiosis. Here, we will link multi-tool field-based observations and novel experimental approaches, including synthesis of artificial symbiotic associations. This will allow us to shed light on processes underlying recruitment and community assembly in symbioses.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Czech Republic
• Cooperation Partner: Professor Dr. Pavel Skaloud