Distribution Patterns of Lichens in the Pacific Region

Abstract

The distribution patterns oflichens in the entire Pacific region from the Arctic through the Americas, East Asia, Australia and New Zealand to Antarctica are reviewed. Several distinct distribution patterns are found: some of the major geological events of the region are reflected in them. It is obvious, however, that long-distance dispersal also plays an important role in the distribution of lichens. For this reason, the well known biogeographical lines such as the Wallace line, between the islands of South-East Asia, for example, have not been found. The small number of endemic taxa, usually at the species level, in Australia, Hawaii, New Caledonia and New Zealand is also noteworthy. However, this may be a result of a slow rate of evolution, perhaps due to the special alga/fungus relationship in lichens or to their generally slow growth.