DNA ISOLATION FROM LICHEN ASCOMATA

Analysis of DNA from the fungal component of lichens requires selectiv e protocols to isolate its DNA from that of its symbiotic partner. In the present study, we describe a method for extraction of DNA from fun gal ascomata, a source of algal-free mycelium. This method, which incl udes a DNA precipitation onto glassmilk (=ground SiO2), is particularl y useful for limited amounts of starting material, as exemplified by t he isolation of DNA from ascomata of Arthonia malendoi growing parasit ically on the lichen Xanthoria elegans. The protocol is effective for the isolation of high-quality DNA from cultured fungi, herbarium speci mens and lichens high in polysaccharide content. This new protocol mak es possible the examination of many fungi until now thought intractabl e to DNA methods.