Ecosystem Interactions

foliose lichen

A lichen is a fungus and an algae, and they’re likin’ one another!

Lichens consist of an algae called a photobiont and a fungus called a mycobiont. Together they form something a little bit different – something that allows both the algae and the fungus to live well.

 Most of the fungi in this mutual relationship are not able to survive without an algae partner. Since fungi can not make their own food like the talented algae, they rely the algae for their food. The fungus harvests these sugars, sending out chemicals to help them diffuse through the permeable cell walls of the algae. Most of the algae can survive on their own, but they may need a very specific habitat in order to do so. By cohabiting with the fungus, the algae can live in many different environments and extend its range significantly.  They are both winners in the end. 

Another relationship exists between the lichen and the tree too!  Commensalism exists between the tree and the lichen. The lichen benefits from having the tree as its' home, but the tree is not harmed from the lichen. 

Just remember, everybody needs somebody!