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Ecology of endolithic lichens colonizing granite in continental Antarctica
Abstract
In this study, the symbiont cells of several endolithic lichens colonizing granite in continental Antarctica and the relationships they have with the abiotic environment were analyzed in situ, in order to characterize the microecosystems integrating these lichens, from a microecological perspective. Mycobiont and photobiont cells, the majority classified as living by fluorescent vitality testing, were observed distributed through the fissures of the granite. The fact that extracellular polymeric substances were commonly observed close to these cells and the features of these compounds, suggest a certain protective role for these substances against the harsh environmental conditions. Different chemical, physical and biological relationships take place within the endolithic biofilms where the lichens are found, possibly affecting the survival and distribution of these organisms. The alteration of bedrock minerals and synthesis of biominerals in the proximity of these lichens give rise to different chemical microenvironments and suggest their participation in mineral nutrient cycling.
Type
Journal Article
Type of thesis
Series
Citation
de los RÃos, A., Wierzchos, J., Sancho, L. G., Green, T.G.A. & Ascaso, C. (2005). Ecology of endolithic lichens colonizing granite in continental Antarctica. The Lichenologist, 37(05), 383-395.
Date
2005
Publisher
Cambridge University Press
Degree
Supervisors
Rights
This article is published in the journal, The Lichenologist. Copyright © British Lichen Society 2005.