FRAME – Fungal Research in the Age of Museomic Exploration: revisiting historical lichen collections

Project Information

FRAME

Grant agreement ID: 101068774

DOI

10.3030/101068774

Project terminated on 24 October 2023

EC signature date 9 June 2022

Start date 20 September 2022

End date 19 September 2024

Funded under

• Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)

Total cost

No data

EU contribution

€ 210 911,04

Coordinated by

UNIVERSITETET I OSLO
Norway

Periodic Reporting for period 1 - FRAME (FRAME – Fungal Research in the Age of Museomic Exploration: revisiting historical lichen collections)

Reporting period: 2022-09-20 to 2024-09-19

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

Lichens, often unnoticed, are unique symbiotic partnerships between fungi and algae or cyanobacteria. Thriving in diverse environments, these organisms contribute to ecological processes, serve as bioindicators, and hold cultural significance. Their adaptability and intricate relationships make them a fascinating subject of study, shedding light on the interconnected web of life on Earth.

The FRAME project occupies a niche within the study of lichen-forming fungi, a group of ecological significance that has historically received insufficient attention. With an estimated multitude of undiscovered fungal species, our endeavor is to elucidate the intricate diversity of lichens, constituting approximately 17% of known fungal diversity.

The methodological underpinning of FRAME lies in museomics, a technique that strategically leverages historical lichen specimens from natural history museums. This approach, not only pragmatic in terms of resource allocation but also pioneering, establishes a methodological blueprint for the study of other taxa.

Our primary investigative focus converges on lobarioid lichens, a subgroup renowned for its ecological prominence. Employing advanced genomic techniques, we navigate their genetic landscape to discern their evolutionary trajectory. New Caledonia, situated in the South Pacific, stands as a pertinent case study, providing an opportunity to elucidate the unique attributes characterizing lichen diversity in this region.

Beyond its scientific implications, the FRAME project possesses transformative potential. By uncovering the hidden diversity within lobarioid lichens, it highlights the crucial role of archival museum collections in unveiling Earth's concealed richness.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

In the recent phase of the FRAME project, substantial milestones have been attained in the scientific examination of lobarioid lichens. In the initial part of the work, museomics was applied to ancient lichen specimens sourced from historical repositories. This application unveiled the genetic information concealed within these specimens, offering discernments into the diversity of lobarioid lichens. Analogous to a figurative time-traveling instrument, this method exhibited efficacy across diverse specimens, indicating its potential for conducting biodiversity and genetic research with historical collections.

Concurrently, the genetic approach was expanded to contemporary lobarioid lichen samples, with a specific focus on those originating from the New Caledonia Biodiversity Hotspot. The integration of fieldwork and laboratory techniques facilitated an understanding of the evolutionary trajectories of these lichens in contemporary settings.

Moreover, systematic endeavors in the reclassification of lobarioid lichens have yielded refined taxonomic insights and enhanced our comprehension of their evolutionary affinities. The amassed dataset not only serves as a valuable resource for ongoing research but also holds promise for broader studies in ecology and evolution. In simpler terms, investigating the genetic aspects of lobarioid lichens contributed to an improved understanding of their relationships, enriching the broader perspective of life on Earth.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

The application of museomics on ancient lichen specimens, coupled with extensive contemporary sampling allowed for a more accurate understanding of lichen diversity and evolutionary histories. This approach not only improved our scientific understanding of these organisms but also demonstrated how historical collections can be used in biodiversity research.

Additionally, the establishment of a thorough lichen checklist for New Caledonia, supported by molecular studies, represents a novel contribution to the field. This checklist, enriched by close to 1,400 lichen specimens collected during intensive fieldwork, not only enhances our understanding of New Caledonia's lichen diversity but also serves – beyond its scientific significance – as a valuable resource for conservation efforts in the region.

Beyond the academic realm, the societal impacts of the FRAME project are noteworthy, namely in New Caledonia. The establishment of a comprehensive lichen checklist, supported by molecular studies, not only contributes to scientific knowledge but also holds practical significance for the local community. This checklist provides a valuable baseline for monitoring and managing lichen diversity, offering insights into the ecological health of New Caledonia's unique ecosystems.

Moreover, the collaboration with local associations has fostered engagement and understanding of scientific endeavors within the community. This engagement has the potential to instill a sense of pride and connection to the local environment among citizens, fostering a greater appreciation for biodiversity conservation.

To ensure the further uptake and success of these results, there is a need for continued research and dissemination efforts. Further studies could delve into specific aspects of lobarioid lichen biology, ecology, and adaptation, building on the foundational genetic data provided by FRAME. Additionally, efforts to disseminate these findings to a broader audience, including policymakers and conservation practitioners, will be essential for maximizing the impact of the project's outcomes.