Lichen propagule priming – innovation for restoring reindeer lichens (Cladonia sp.) in post-mining landscapes

Purpose and goal

Mining in the north of Sweden is often conducted in reindeer herding areas and create disturbances that lead to extensive loss of lichen, the winter food for the reindeers and one of the key species for boreal ecosystems. Our aim in symbios project is to develop and implement on large scale an innovative, sustainable and cost-effective solution for reindeer lichens restoration in post-mining landscapes in Sweden and evaluate its feasibility in circumboreal regions of Europe and North America.

Expected effects and result

To meet the above objectives, we will report on the development of protocols for lichen primer pilot scale production and the use of hydroseeding for the primer(s) application, aiming to update the existing lichen restoration practices. This initiative is expected to deliver a novel technical solution for the restoration of reindeer lichens, while supporting the future of the Sami way of life – an initiative that addresses ecosystem, industry and societal needs – a symbiosis.

Planned approach and implementation

Reindeer lichens are symbiotic associations between a fungal partner and green algae/cyanobacteria. Within this project our strategy is to start by sampling and identifying Cladonia sp. within the mining areas in northern Sweden. We will then isolate the symbionts and optimize their cultivation conditions in the laboratory. Our final objective is to develop lichenized primer formulations for large scale field applications by hydroseeding, to promote reindeer lichen regeneration.