In lakes, mosses are distributed in deeper waters than any other form of plant life. Little is known about these plant communities, and this ongoing study by Dr. Lonzarich and his students is the most comprehensive of its kind. Prior work in this lab has explored the distribution and factors affecting the occurrence of mosses from 70 lakes in Wisconsin. The objectives of this study were to identify the mosses collected from these lakes using a DNA barcoding approach, which involves DNA extraction, PCR amplification of the LTS gene (barcoding gene), and sequencing using the Sanger method. An altermative method using the RBCL gene and next-generation sequencing is also being used. By identifying the species through online gene databases, the study intends to unravel the geographic distribution patterns of deep-water moss species in the state. The study builds on previous work that found difficulties in identifying moss species based on morphological characteristics due to their unique growth forms in deep-water habitats. Initial indications from morphological assessments suggest the presence of distinct geographic patterns in the distribution of deep-water mosses within Wisconsin's lakes.
