Comparison of development of axenic cultures of five species of lichen-forming fungi

Although several new techniques for isolating and culturing lichens have be en reported in recent years, there is little information available concerni ng the variability in development of species from different taxonomic group s. A comparison of the early stages of the germination and growth of Xantho ria parietina (Teloschistaceae), Parmelia saxatilis (Parmeliaceae), Physcon ia distorta and two Diplotomma species (Physciaceae) was performed on two d ifferent media: one inorganic, and the other containing 4% glucose (LBM; Li lly-Barnett medium). Different germination and development rates, and isola tion success rate (single- and multispore cultures) are reported. The new c ombination Diplotomma rivasmartinezii (Barreno & A. Crespo) Barreno & A. Cr espo is made.