Ultra close-up image of lichen
Lichens grow on tree branches, fences, bare rock, roofs, sand and many other places where other plant life would struggle to survive. A lichen is actually a symbiotic relationship (a partnership if you like) between a fungus and an alga. The fungus protects the alga from the elements, while the alga provides food for the fungus via photosynthesis. Lichens are found in most habitats and on every continent – even Antarctica - from mountain tops to deserts. They can survive extremes of temperature and even though as plants they require water, some species can survive months without any water at all. Many species of lichens are sensitive to air quality and some live in only the purist of atmospheres. An absence of lichens can be an indicator of air pollution. For example many lichen species have become extinct in large areas of Britain since industrialisation, mostly due to rising sulphur dioxide levels in the atmosphere. Lichens vary in appearance from plant-like leafy organisms to flat crusty creatures. There is no need to worry if you find lichen growing on tree branches, fences or other places in the garden. Lichens are harmless and do not damage their hosts.
Size: 4256px × 2831px
Location: Pomonal, Victoria, Australia
Photo credit: © Denis Crawford / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
Keywords: alga, australia, encrust, fungus, growth, infest, lichen, macro, symbiotic
