New data on lichens from Salair province in Altaisky krai (Siberia, Russia)

Abstract

In terms of lichens, Salair region is the least studied area of Altaisky krai, with as few as five species being reported from the territory, whereas Salair Range within Novosibirsk and Kemerovo regions was well investigated lichenologically. The first data on lichens of Salair province in Altaisky krai are presented: ninety six mostly corticolous and lignicolous lichen species and two non-lichenized fungi traditionally treated with lichens (Phaeocalicium polyporaeum Schizoxylon albescens) are recorded from Abies sibirica - Populus tremula tall grass forests of Zalesovsky Reserve. Among them, Acrocordia cavata and Phaeocalicium polyporaeum are new records for Siberia. Fuscidea pusilla and Bacidina delicata are new for South and West Siberia respectively. Eighteen species are new for Altaisky krai: Absconditella delutula, Arthonia apatetica, Bacidia circumspecta, B. igniarii, B. incompta, B. polychroa, B. subincompta, Biatora efflorescens, Calicium denigratum, Melanelixia fuliginosa ssp. glabratula, Micarea lignaria, Mycobilimbia epixanthoides, Pertusaria hemisphaerica, P. leioplaca, Placynthiella dasaea, Pseudoschismatomma rufescens, Rinodina efflorescens, and Xanthomendoza fulva. Most recorded species are epiphytes, because the ground is almost completely covered by vegetation dominated by tall grasses and forbs; stones were not found. "Calicioid lichens" - three Calicium and four Chaenotheca species, which are well-known as markers of ecological continuity in forest communities, are relatively diverse and abundant. Several other species, e. g. Absconditella delutula, Acrocordia cavata, Arthonia apatetica, Bacidia spp., Collema furfuraceum, Lobaria pulmonaria, Ramalina spp. are also characteristic for old-growth biologically valuable forests in Altaisky krai. One species - Lobaria pulmonaria - is included in the Red Data Book of Russia, and another species - Ramalina roesleri - in the Red Data Book of Altaisky krai. It is strongly recommended to maintain the special protection regime and exclude felling of the forest in Zalesovsky reserve.