The following points highlight the four main types of lichen thallus. The types are: 1. Crustose (Crustaceous) Lichens 2. Foliose (Foliaceous) Lichens 3. Fruticose Lichens 4. Squamulose Lichens. Type # 1. Crustose (Crustaceous) Lichens: The thallus is of insignificant size. It is flat, thin usually without any distinct lobes. It is just like a thin layer or crust closely attached [...]
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 [...]