Biological soil crusts (biocrusts) are complex communities of microbes, lichens, and bryophytes living on the soil surface. However, they can be very cryptic and are thus often overlooked, even by botanists. This talk will provide an introduction to the key components within biocrusts and explain the roles they play in ecosystem functioning. Specifically, it will provide background on the complex interactions between biocrusts and plant communities. Finally, Brianne will explain her current research on how biocrusts in grasslands and the coastal sage scrub respond to fire and discuss strategies to conserve these unique communities.

Brianne Palmer is a PhD candidate in the joint doctoral ecology program at San Diego State University and the University of California, Davis. Prior to graduate school she earned a B.S. in conservation and restoration ecology from Utah State University and worked as a botany technician in Utah before being sucked into the complex and interesting world of soil microbial ecology and biological soil crusts. Her current research seeks to understand how biological soil crusts respond to fire through field observations and quantification of the microbial community. She is also the 2021-2022 Outreach Chair for the California Botanical Society.