Collection of Symbiotic Algae of the University of Valencia

<strong>Collection of Symbiotic Algae  of the University of Valencia</strong>

The ASUV collection of the University of Valencia is a scientific resource of symbiotic microalgae – lichen phycobionts. This collection, unique in Spain and one of the few in the world formed exclusively by symbiotic microalgae of lichens, stands out for the microalgae isolated from lichens collected in Mediterranean and Macaronesian territories. Currently, ASUV consists of about 75 strains, including 65 species from 14 genera. Among which are the main lichen microalgae: Trebouxia, Myrmecia, Vulcanochloris and Asterochloris. These strains are maintained by cryopreservation at -20 ºC and -80 ºC and by means of the traditional subculture method.