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A cyanolichen from the Lower Devonian Rhynie chert
American Journal of Botany
|June 29, 2011
Summary
Fossil fungi in the Rhynie chert reveal the earliest lichen symbiosis. This ancient cyanobacterial partnership, Winfrenatia, thrived in harsh Devonian environments, showcasing early plant-fungi interactions.
Area of Science:
- Paleobotany
- Mycology
- Early Devonian Paleoecology
Background:
- The Rhynie chert is a crucial source of information on Early Devonian terrestrial ecosystems.
- Fungal interactions are well-documented, but lichen symbiosis evidence was previously lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the first unequivocal evidence of lichen symbiosis from the Rhynie chert.
- To characterize the newly discovered lichen genus, Winfrenatia.
Main Methods:
- Microscopic examination of Rhynie chert specimens.
- Analysis of fungal and cyanobacterial structures and their interactions.
Main Results:
- Discovery of Winfrenatia, a new lichen genus with aseptate hyphae and cyanobacterial photobionts.
- Detailed description of the symbiotic relationship, including fungal parasitism of cyanobacteria.
- Identification of fungal affinities with Zygomycetes and photobiont similarities to Gloeocapsa and Chroococcidiopsis.
Conclusions:
- Winfrenatia represents the earliest known lichen symbiosis.
- This cyanobacterial symbiosis was likely adapted to colonize challenging, periodically desiccated ecological niches.
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