The following points highlight the two main examples of lichens. The examples are: 1. Parmelia 2. Usnea. Example # 1. Parmelia: It is a common example of a foliose lichen which is found growing on the bark as well as the rock intermixed with the mosses at higher altitude (above 4,000 ft.). The heteromerous thallus is lobed to deeply incised. [...]
In this article we will discuss about the modes of reproduction in lichens. A. Reproduction of Lichen Thallus: It multiplies by vegetative methods of fragmentation and also by the formation of highly differentiated propagules as follows: (i) Fragmentation: It consists in the breaking up of the established thalli into segments which are distributed to start new growths. Fragmentation is accomplished [...]
In this article we will discuss about the economic importance of lichens. A. Useful Aspects: (a) Ecological significance: (i) Pioneer colonizers: Lichens are said to be the pioneers in establishing vegetation on bare rocky areas (lithosere). They are the first members to colonize the barren rocky area. During development they bring about the disintegration of rock stones (biological weathering) by [...]