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Why do lichens come in so many different shapes? Explore these mysterious symbiotic organisms!
Lichens, mysterious organisms, are often overlooked in our lives, yet the diversity of these symbiotic organisms is amazing. Lichens are complex organisms composed of fungi, photosynthetic organisms (such as algae or cyanobacteria), and sometimes yeasts, and their shape and appearance vary from species to species and are often influenced by the environment in which they grow.
Each different lichen shape is actually the result of several different organisms evolving together in order to survive.
Lichenologists have classified these unique organisms, describing as many as a dozen growth forms, including lobed, web-like, button-like, tegumentary, leathery, filamentous, Leafy, shrubby, jellyy, scabby, patchy and scaly. Traditionally, lichens have been divided into three main categories: crustose, foliose, and fruticose. These different shapes are not only a reflection of how lichens adapt to their environment, but are also an integral part of their ecosystem.
Symbiotic relationships in lichens
What is special about lichens is their symbiotic relationships. The fungi provide the structure in this relationship, allowing the photosynthetic organisms to survive. Photosynthetic organisms provide needed nutrients, and when yeast is present in the lichen, it can also help ward off potential threats from microorganisms and predators. This collaboration allows lichens to thrive in different environments and adapt to a variety of climatic and geographical conditions.
Diverse growth forms
The diversity of lichens lies in their growth forms. The following is a brief introduction to the main growth forms of lichens:
AreolateThese lichens look like paint and are tightly attached to the substrate on which they grow. The polygonal structure formed by its cell walls helps the lichen store water as it alternates between wet and dry periods.
ByssoidA cotton-like net-like lichen composed primarily of loosely woven fungal hyphae, often found in environments with high humidity.
Calicioid
This group of lichens is characterized by their fruit bodies, usually found in old forests, and can serve as an indicator of the age and quality of an ecosystem.
Cladoniform
These lichens often have a combination of two different shapes, including overlapping scales and shrubs, creating a unique appearance.
Crustose
As the name implies, leathery lichens appear flat and closely attached to the substrate, making them difficult to remove without damaging it.
Foliose
These lichens typically have flat leaf-like projections that are usually not completely attached to the substrate and have distinct upper and lower surfaces.
Fruticose
Shrubby lichens often have a branch-like structure with only a point of attachment at the base, often dangling in the air.
Gelatinous
This group of lichens includes blue-green algae that are able to absorb water in unstable environments and are often found in areas with irregular water extraction.
Leprose
It has a powdery appearance, often grows in dark and humid places, lacks a layered structure, and can absorb water directly from the air.
Placodioid
This lichen has radiating edges and is a special type of leathery lichen with unique growth characteristics.
Squamulose
Predominantly small scale-like structures, which may be attached only along the edges, are commonly found in biological soil structures.
Looks like a similar shape
In addition to almost all of the above growth forms, lichenologists have also given some informal names based on their appearance similar to that of specific lichen genera. These names usually cover small categories within a certain shape, its shape characteristics and uses Each is different.
Ecological significance of lichens
Lichens play important roles in ecosystems, including enhancing soil stability, promoting nutrient cycling, and serving as ecological indicators in many fragile environments. These tiny organisms are crucial for understanding broader ecological relationships.
By studying the diversity of lichens, we can not only better understand the complexity of nature, but also gain insight into the unique symbiotic relationships between organisms. So how will the diversity of lichens reflect our changing environment?
