Allographa effusosoredica: A New Lichen Species in the Western Ghats

Discovery of a New Lichen Species: Allographa effusosoredica in the Western Ghats

A newly discovered lichen species, Allographa effusosoredica, has been found in the Western Ghats — one of India’s most prominent biodiversity hotspots. This discovery adds to India’s growing list of unique flora and highlights the country’s ecological richness.

1. What has been discovered?

The new lichen species named Allographa effusosoredica has been identified in the Western Ghats. It represents an important addition to the family Graphidaceae.

2. What are lichens?

Lichens are not single organisms but a symbiotic association between a fungus and a photosynthetic partner—typically a green alga or cyanobacterium. The fungus provides the structure and protection, while the algal partner produces food through photosynthesis.

3. Why is this species special?

• It contains rare chemical compounds such as norstictic acid.
• Its body exhibits unusual structures known as “effuse soredia.”
• The species has been analyzed using both traditional taxonomy and advanced molecular (DNA) techniques.

4. What techniques were used in the study?

• Morphological and chemical analyses to examine the species’ external and internal features.
• DNA sequencing of both fungal and algal partners using genetic markers such as mtSSU, LSU, RPB2, and ITS.

5. What did the DNA analysis show?

Genetic studies revealed that Allographa effusosoredica is closely related to Allographa xanthospora. However, its morphology resembles Graphis glaucescens, prompting scientists to reconsider classification boundaries within the Graphidaceae family.

6. Why is this important for India?

• This is the first Allographa species from India supported by molecular (DNA) data.
• It highlights the importance of studying both fungal and algal diversity within lichens.
• The discovery emphasizes the need for advanced molecular research on lichens in India’s biodiversity-rich zones.

7. Where does this species stand in Indian records?

Allographa effusosoredica is the 53rd species from the Allographa genus recorded in India and the 22nd species identified from the Western Ghats alone.

8. What does the study recommend?

The study urges deeper molecular and ecological research on lichens to understand their role in ecosystems — particularly in biodiversity hotspots like the Western Ghats.