Diversity and evolution of lichen-associated basidiomycetes

Lichens are emergent properties of symbiotic interactions, but what contributes to the formation of a functional lichen is not well understood.

Recently, we discovered basidiomycete yeasts to be constitutive occupants of lichens, initiating a paradigm shift from a dual hypothesis of the symbiosis between only one filamentous fungus and photosynthesizing partner to a more holistic view including additional microbial players. Here, I will explore the diversity and genome evolution of lichen-associated basidiomycetes.

First year, I will study the basidiomycete diversity in common lichens by metabarcoding.

Based on that data, I will select core basidiomycetes for detailed single cell genomic study during the second and third year, in order to elucidate how they have evolved and adapted to the lichen microenvironment and what is their functional potential and possible roles in the symbiosis.

During the last two years, I will visualize the 3D environment in thalli with e.g. correlative light and electron microscopy, shedding light on organismal interactions on ultrastructural level. Lichens are important for ecosystem functioning and a prominent proportion of Fungi form lichens.

In order to understand how these symbioses evolve and are affected by the changing environment, it is crucial to examine which players are involved in, and how they contribute to, the formation of a lichen. Ultimately, this project will expand our understanding on the complexity and evolution of symbiosis.