The complexity of lichen symbioses: Novel interdisciplinary approaches from genomic to functional perspectives.

 Lichens are complex symbiotic systems, in which coexistence occurs between several microalgal taxa and/or

lineages with a single fungus -mycobiont-, displaying different tolerance patterns to multiple kinds of abiotic
stress. Furthermore, certain communities of non-photosynthetic bacteria and yeasts are starting to be
considered as an integral part of the lichen thalli.
Currently, interdisciplinary genomic approaches (NGS, culture isolations, multi-tool genetic analyses, etc.)
have generated promising results to deal with lichen complexity and microalgae diversity. Therefore, the new
point of view considers lichen thalli to be complex micro-ecosystems, which brings about further questions
concerning many of the biochemical and cellular mechanisms of the microalgae involved in the functional
equilibrium of lichen symbioses.
This meeting is dedicated to discussing and better clarifying our knowledge of the complex interactions that
uphold lichen symbiosis, through the characterization of different aspects of biology and phylogenetic
relationships within the symbionts.
Outstanding international attendees experienced in different research field of lichen symbiosis will present
and discuss their novel results. A DEMO training session will be dedicated to explain/ teach some
biogeographical and phylogenetic tools in an informatics room. At the same time, this unique meeting will
give everyone the opportunity to both strengthen present cooperation and establish new contacts for the
compilation of future research proposals.
This interdisciplinary meeting is open to Masters and Doctoral students, Post- Doctoral fellows, lecturers,
etc., both directly related or not to research in lichen symbiosis. OPEN to ALL: NO REGISTRATION FEES,
REGISTRATION would be appreciated prior to attending talks in: liquenologiauv@gmail.com
The Faculties of Biological Sciences and Mathematics will provide the venue and informatics facilities. The
Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology (ICBIBE) and the Department of Botany and
Geology will provide lab facilities and other seminar rooms for any additional needs during the workshop.