Chapter 29.4, Problem 2R

Summary Introduction

To review:

The advantages of analysis of lichen diversity and its preserved specimens in the museum over the direct methods for assessing the long-term air quality of an area.

Introduction:

Lichens are formed by the symbiotic association formed between green algae and fungi often from the phylum ascomycetes. The lichen formed by this association is very different from independent fungi and algae species existing alone.

Neither fungi nor algae can exist without the other counterpart. Lichens grow slowly and are often found in the areas rarely inhabited by other organisms. They are the pioneer species that colonize a barren land or rock due to their capability of organic acids that degrade rocks. Lichens also accumulate the nutrients essential for the growth of plants.