Does air pollution influence the success of species translocation? Trace elements, ultrastructure and photosynthetic performances in transplants of a threatened forest macrolichen

摘要: Abstract Species translocation can be considered as a primary conservation strategy with reference to in situ conservation. In the case of lichens, translocations often risk fail due stress factors associated unsuitable receptor sites. Considering bioecological characteristics air pollution is among most limiting factors. this study, forest macrolichen Lobaria pulmonaria was used model test hypothesis that sensitive lichens effective only unpolluted environments. At purpose, 500 fragments or whole thalli were translocated selected beech forests Central Europe (the Western Carpathians, Slovakia) where species disappeared past and oak Southern (Tuscany, Italy) native populations are present. Prior (May 2016) after one year, morphological ultrastructural features, trace elements well chlorophyll fluorescence emission analysed. Four years later, effectiveness lichen further evaluated presence transplants newly formed individuals. After ensured an survival remote characterized by negligible low contamination heavy metals. The successful developed new lobules rhizines, attaching themselves bark host trees, looking overall healthy, without evident signs alteration also at level. Moreover, few cases individuals observed four years. On other hand, results highlighted link between unsuccess areas Carpathians suggested current quality still limits possibility recolonization disappeared.