The effects of temperature and moisture on dark respiration in the foliose lichen Umbilicaria antarctica

The dark respiration of field‐fresh thalli of Umbilicaria antarctica Frey et Lamb is reported for temperatures from −5.5 to 19°C, and water contents from saturation to dryness. Detailed analysis of the respiratory response with changing water content has suggested that Michaelis‐Menten kinetics appear to provide a useful model. Q10 values are used to indicate possible ice formation in the thallus and water loss characteristics are explained in terms of thallus anatomy. The ecological implications of this approach are discussed.

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