Dan Blanchon

Evolution of complex symbiotic relationships in a morphologically derived family of lichen-forming fungi.

We studied the evolutionary history of the Parmeliaceae (Lecanoromycetes, Ascomycota), one of the largest families of lichen-forming fungi with complex and variable morphologies, also including several lichenicolous fungi. We assembled a six-locus data set including nuclear, mitochondrial and low-copy protein-coding genes from 293 operational taxonomic units (OTUs). The lichenicolous lifestyle originated independently three times in lichenized ancestors within Parmeliaceae, and a new generic name is introduced for one of these fungi. In all cases, the independent origins occurred c. 24 million yr ago. Further, we show that the Paleocene, Eocene and Oligocene were key periods when diversification of major lineages within Parmeliaceae occurred, with subsequent radiations occurring primarily during the Oligocene and Miocene. Our phylogenetic hypothesis supports the independent origin of lichenicolous fungi associated with climatic shifts at the Oligocene-Miocene boundary. Moreover, diversification bursts at different times may be crucial factors driving the diversification of Parmeliaceae. Additionally, our study provides novel insight into evolutionary relationships in this large and diverse family of lichen-forming ascomycetes.

Cannabimimetic effects modulated by cholinergic compounds.

This report is based upon a clinical case series describing five patients who volitionally adultered cannabis with a variety of compounds that shared a common trait—cholinergic modulation. They included a nicotinic agonist, muscarinic antagonist and antiacetylcholinesterase compounds. Some of these compounds (e.g. tobacco) are known to exert pharmacokinetic effects upon cannabinoids (e.g. improved drug absorption). Contrarily, our patients claimed that the compounds altered pharmacodynamic ‘cannabimimetic’ effects. The case series was supported by forensic identification of adulterants and by use of a symptom causality algorithm. A survey of the gray literature and drug culture web sites indicated that the case series portended a larger social phenomenon. Furthermore, many clinical reports, animal behaviour studies and in vitro mechanistic studies substantiated our observations. In conclusion, we provide empirical data regarding a new trend in the drug culture—cholinergic modulation of cannabinoid effects—that presents new research directions.

The lichen genus Ramalina Ach. (Ramalinaceae) on the outlying islands of the New Zealand geographic area

The diversity of species of Ramalina occurring on the outlying islands of the New Zealand geographic area is linked to their methods of dispersal and the origin and principal climatic features of the islands themselves. It appears that species of Ramalina have reached these islands by transoceanic, wind-borne dispersal of ascospores and soredia, not necessarily in the direction of the prevailing winds. Species have become established on the islands only if both climatic and habitat requirements have been met.

Conservation status of New Zealand lichens

Abstract The first listing of the conservation status of lichens indigenous to the New Zealand Botanical Region (excluding Macquarie Island) is presented. The list comprises 1799 formally accepted taxa placed in the following categories: ‘Threatened’, 11 taxa (comprising 4 taxa Nationally Critical, 4 Nationally Endangered, 3 Nationally Vulnerable); ‘At Risk’, 176 taxa (comprising 173 Naturally Uncommon and 4 Declining taxa); and 975 ‘Data Deficient’ taxa. A further 636 taxa were considered ‘Not Threatened’. A further five lichens are listed as ‘Taxonomically Indeterminate’, being lichens which may warrant further conservation attention once their taxonomic status is clarified. A concordance of lichen names is provided. A brief analysis of the patterns of threat and rarity exhibited by New Zealand lichens listed is also presented.

Molecular data support Ramalina ovalis as a distinct lineage ( Ramalinaceae , Ascomycota)

Ramalina celastri is a highly variable, widely distributed pan-subtropical lichen species. In Australasia the species had been separated into two subspecies; R. celastri subsp. celastri and R. celastri subsp. ovalis . This study compares morphological variation, substratum preference and sequences of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and intergenic spacer (IGS) regions of ribosomal DNA from a range of specimens from New Zealand and one from Australia. Bayesian and ML trees generated using the sequence data form two well-supported clades corresponding to the two previously recognized subspecies. Molecular, morphological and geographical differences support the recognition of R. ovalis at the species rank.

Propagating the pale‐flowered kumarahou (Pomaderris hamiltonii) and kumarahou (Pomaderris kumeraho) from seeds

Abstract The germination rate in the nursery of Pomaderris hamiltonii and P. kumeraho has been observed to be low. Poor germination for a number of species can be due to a range of seed dormancy mechanisms. Five different dormancy‐breaking treatments were trialled. Scarification using boiling water and sulphuric acid significantly improved germination in both species (for P. hamiltonii the germination percentages were 9.3 for the control, 14 for boiling water, and 32.6 for acid; for P. kumeraho the germination percentages were 3.4 for the control, 27.3 for boiling water, and 59.3 for acid), by breaking the impervious coat. The most successful treatments achieved 97% germination (acid plus warmth during germination) for P. kumeraho and 50% germination (boiling water plus warmth during germination) for P. hamiltonii. Smoke exposure followed by pre‐sowing heat significantly (P < 0.011) improved germination for P. hamiltonii, but not for P. kumeraho, suggesting different dormancy‐breaking stimuli. The response of both species to treatments which break physical dormancy may indicate an ecological role for high heat events such as fire. Embryo viability for both species is high (94%) while germination percentages were low (5.9% and 10.3%, respectively). It is possible there are other barriers to germination.

Devitalisation of imported horsetail (Equisetum hyemale)

Abstract Equisetum hyemale is a popular import for use in floristry. Anecdotal evidence from florists suggested, that despite Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) requirements to devitalise imported plant material, Equisetum stems remain viable and readily form roots when placed in water or fioristry foam. Imported stem material was tested and confirmed as being capable of producing roots and shoots. Fresh material of Equisetum was treated using the devitalisation techniques prescribed by MAF and was killed. Discrepancies are noted between the importation requirements for the United States versus Australasian material.

Chromosome numbers in the genus Liberlia (Iridaceae)

Abstract Chromosome numbers have been determined for seven species of Libertia from New Zealand, Australia, and south America. An extensive polyploid series, ranging from diploid with 2n = 2x = 38 through 2n = 12x = 228, has been found.

Distribution and community composition of lichens on mature mangroves (Avicennia marina subsp. australasica (Walp.) J.Everett) in New Zealand

Mangrove forests of a single trees species, Avicennia marina subsp. australasica are widespread in the upper North Island of New Zealand, but there is little available information on the diversity of epiphytes such as lichens within them. A survey of 200 trees from 20 mangrove sites recorded a total of 106 lichen species from 45 genera. Two of these species are considered to be ‘Threatened’, five ‘At Risk’ and 27 ‘Data Deficient’. Multiple regression indicated that tree diameter (DBH) and mean annual rain days positively influenced site species richness. Multidimensional scaling showed that sites from the same geographical region generally formed distinct clusters. Redundancy analysis indicated that mean annual wet days, latitude and DBH measurably influenced species composition.

Notes on Caloplaca allanii Zahlbr. (Teloschistaceae) a poorly known West Auckland, North Island, New Zealand endemic

After a lapse of 81 years we report the rediscovery of Caloplaca allanii (Teloschistaceae), a lichen previously known only from the type collection. The species appears to be endemic to the Waitakere Ranges coastline west of Auckland, North Island, New Zealand. A revised description of the species based on fresh material is provided, and we expand the distribution of the species as well as describing its habitats and associated species. A table and key to the saxicolous, coastal Caloplaca of the Waitakere Ranges is also provided. As a narrow-range endemic, with apparently very specific habitat requirements, C. allanii is a naturally uncommon, biologically sparse species. Nevertheless because of the small total area of occupancy, we assess C. allanii as ‘Threatened’/‘Nationally Critical’ using the New Zealand Threat Classification System.