Chapter 12, Problem 3SA

Summary Introduction

To answer:

How are lichens useful in environmental protection studies.

Introduction:

Fungus and algae in a symbiotic relation lead to the formation of “Lichen” where fungi component (mycobiont) is dominant than algal component (photobiont). Lichens can be seen in different colours and they have leafless branches. The algae in lichens will be either of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) or green algae. Mycobiont of lichen produces thallus which helps photobiont from sun damage and in return they are benefited by getting energy from algae. Such type of relationship is called symbiotic relationship in which both the partners are benefited from each other and cannot survive alone. Lichens help us providing information regarding the environment.