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Does lichen grow from spores?
Reproductive strategies. Lichen associations can reproduce in two main ways: sexual reproduction and spore production by the fungi, followed by re-association with a photobiont. vegetative, or clonal, reproduction, when both partners disperse together, maintaining a symbiotic relationship across generations.
How is lichen created?
A lichen is not a single organism, but the result of a partnership (mutualistic symbiosis) between a fungus and an alga or cyanobacteria. Some lichens are formed of three or more partners. They are classified as members of the Fungus Kingdom by systematists because the fungus partner is always the major partner.
How do lichens grow and develop?
Lichens grow by extending their thallus outwards, from either its tips or edges. They grow very slowly, some species more slowly than others. Rates of growth can vary from 0.5mm per year to 500mm per year. Their slow growth rate equates with their long life.
How do lichens move?
Soredia are readily dispersed by wind. In addition to these dispersal methods, many lichens produce apothecia or other fungal fruiting structures, to disperse the spores of the fungal partner (Figures L-P).
Where does lichen grow?
Lichens grow on any undisturbed surface–bark, wood, mosses, rock, soil, peat, glass, metal, plastic, and even cloth. Lichens have their favorite places to grow. For instance, a lichen that grows on bark will rarely be found on stone. Lichens can absorb water through any part of their thalli and have no need of roots.
How does the lichens and fungi help each other?
Lichens and fungus helps each other by the process of symbiotic relationship. Fungus gives shelter to lichens and lichens make food to fungus.
How do two organisms in lichen help each other?
In lichen are actually cells of algae living between those strands. The two organisms work together. The fungus acts as a protector from the environment and loss of moisture. The algae go about their business of photosynthesis and creating food.
How do lichens obtain sugars?
Two species in two genera of green algae are found in over 35% of all lichens, but can only rarely be found living on their own outside of a lichen. Algae produce sugars that are absorbed by the fungus by diffusion into special fungal hyphae called appressoria or haustoria in contact with the wall of the algal cells.