Lichen algae: the photosynthetic partners in lichen symbioses

A review of algal (including cyanobacterial) symbionts associated with lichen-forming fungi is presented. General aspects of their biology relevant to lichen symbioses are summarized. The genera of algae currently believed to include lichen symbionts are outlined; approximately 50 can be recognized at present. References reporting algal taxa in lichen symbiosis are tabulated, with emphasis on those published since the 1988 review by Tschermak-Woess, and particularly those providing molecular evidence for their identifications. This review is dedicated in honour of Austrian phycologist Elisabeth Tschermak-Woess (1917-2001), for her numerous and significant contributions to our knowledge of lichen algae (some published under the names Elisabeth Tschermak and Liesl Tschermak).

Automated summary

This review presents the algal symbionts associated with lichen-forming fungi, summarizing their biology relevant to lichen symbioses. Approximately 50 genera of algae are believed to include lichen symbionts, with references tabulated to emphasize recent publications providing molecular evidence for their identifications. The review is dedicated to Austrian phycologist Elisabeth Tschermak-Woess for her significant contributions to the knowledge of lichen algae.