Lichen Resilience: Physiological and Metabolic Responses to Environmental Stress

Reynir Freyr Reynisson, doctoral student at the University of Munchen (Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Fakultät für Biologie, Systematik, Biodiversität & Evolution der Pflanzen) will give a talk on "Unraveling Lichen Resilience: Physiological and Metabolic Responses to Environmental Stress Across Contrasting Climates".

Abstract
Lichens, as symbiotic organisms, exhibit remarkable resilience to environmental stressors, making them critical indicators of ecological health and the impacts of climate change. This research investigates the physiological, metabolic, and transcriptomic responses of lichens to environmental stresses, focusing on Peltigera leucophlebia and Peltigera britannica.

A key experiment conducted in Munich examines the thermal stress responses of Peltigera leucophlebia collected from two contrasting environments: Kleifarvatn, Iceland, and Allgau, Germany. Samples were exposed to controlled temperature conditions (12°C, 17°C, and 27°C) to assess photosynthetic efficiency and metabolite profiles. Using advanced tools such as PAM fluorometry and metabolomics, the study revealed significant differences in stress tolerance and adaptation mechanisms between the two populations. Complementary experiments, including transcriptomic studies on temperature stress in Peltigera britannica and Peltigera membranacea, along with transplant experiments in Iceland, provide a broader context for understanding stress acclimation in lichens. These findings highlight the potential for lichens to adapt to changing climatic conditions and underscore their importance in biomonitoring and conservation efforts. Additionally, unrelated lichen-focused field trips to the Alps and teaching botany at the Botanical Garden in Munich have enriched the research experience, offering deeper insights into ecological diversity and fostering the exchange of knowledge through education.

Friday biology seminars: https://luvs.hi.is/is/friday-biology-seminars