Anatomical, physiological and chemical differences between populations of Pseudocyphellaria flavicans (Hook. f. & Taylor) Vain. from Chile

Environmental conditions can affect lichen morphology, physiology and chemistry. Some functional traits; like thickness of thallus layers, photosystems condition, and presence of photoprotective and antioxidant compounds are key to colonizing new sites, and can change depending on light and moisture availability. In the present study, we compared the morphology, physiology and chemistry of the native Chilean lichen Pseudocyphellaria flavicans from two Coastal populations (Nahuelbuta and Contulmo, Araucanía district), and one Andean population (Ralco, Bío-Bío district). Ralco is a more closed secondary forest, and can show dryer periods compared to Nahuelbuta and Contulmo. We found differences in thalli anatomy between populations. Ralco individuals had thinner upper cortex than Nahuelbuta individuals. Contulmo individuals had similar upper cortex thickness compared to the other two populations. We also found differences in the response of the maximal efficiency of the PSII (Fv/Fm) to desiccation and in the in situ values measured. We did not find differences between populations in the chemical traits. The differences between populations could be attributed to differences in local environmental conditions, namely moisture and light.