Lichens

Composite organisms formed from a symbiotic relationship between fungi and algae or cyanobacteria.

lichen colonies

Lichens are composite organisms formed by the symbiotic relationship between fungi and algae or cyanobacteria. They commonly grow on rocks, trees, and other surfaces in various environments.

Lichens derive from the Latin word 'lichen' meaning 'moss-like plant'.

Lichens are like tiny ecosystems where a fungus and algae or cyanobacteria live together, helping each other survive.

What are lichens? They are composite organisms formed from a symbiotic relationship between fungi and algae or cyanobacteria
How do lichens grow? They can grow on rocks, trees, and other surfaces
What is symbiosis? It's when two different organisms live together to benefit each other

Fungi Algae

Crustose lichens Foliose lichens Fruticose lichens

Thallus Mycobiont Photobiont

Ecosystems Rocks Trees

ecological natural object organism