1 What is it about lichens that allows them to live under ha

1. What is it about lichens that allows them to live under harsh as well as lush conditions?

2. Pine trees grown in sterilized soil grow slowly. If some soil with fungal hyphae from a natural forest is added, they begin to grow much faster. How do you explain this?

Solution

Question 1

Answer

Lichens are made up of two different organisms, algai and fungal partner, which form a symbiotic relationship with each other for their mutual survival.
The fungus forms the visible portion of lichen inside of which, and protected by them, are cells of an algae .
The algae provide nutrients, as they contain the pigment chlorophyll, which it uses during photosynthesis to produce carbohydrates.
The fungal tissue in turn provides shelter for the algae allowing it to grow in harsh conditions such as rock surfaces where it would otherwise be destroyed.

Lichens are also able to shut down metabolic activity during periods of unfavourable conditions then with the return of appropriate amount of light and moisture, clean air, and freedom from competition, lichens will continue to grow.

Lichens can also produce more than 500 unique biochemical compounds that serve to control light exposure.
There are enough nutrients carried in rain water and dust to allow lichens to grow on rock faces etc.