Alberta Mycological Society

Calicioids are a diverse group of tiny, stubble-like lichens and allied fungi traditionally studied by lichenologists. Many calicioids grow in highly specialized microhabitats, making them good indicators of natural areas with high conservation value. However, appreciating this fascinating group of lichens requires a good understanding of their taxonomy which had yet to be tackled in Alberta. In this talk, I will share our study that examined the calicioid flora of Alberta which uncovered a whopping 72 species (more than doubled the 31 previously known to the province). The flora includes comprehensive descriptions, distribution maps and images of 93% of the species in the province.

Jose completed his Masters in Ecology at the University of Guelph, Ontario, and has a background in vegetation monitoring, species conservation and taxonomy. He became captivated by the diverse lichens of eastern Canada, where he developed a keen interest in calicioids. Currently, he works as a Lichen Taxonomist at the Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute, where he continues to share his love for these tiny species!