Lichens

• Lichens are a complex life form that is a symbiotic partnership of two separate organisms, a fungus and an alga. The
dominant partner is the fungus, which gives the lichen the majority of its characteristics, from its thallus shape to its fruiting
bodies.

• A lichen is a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and an alga or other photosynthetic partner.

• The fungus provides structure and habitat for the photosynthetic partner, which provides food.

• Very diverse – over 25,000 species

• Found in harsh environments as they need only light, air, and minerals to grow

• Often serve as pioneer species in new areas, conditioning the soil to allow new plants to grow.

• Lichens are especially sensitive to airborne pollutants.

• Lichens serve as important bioindicators of air quality, meaning they are living organisms sensitive and responsive to changes
in the environment.

• If there is even a slight difference in the environment, like change in nitrogen levels, the lichen itself will change.

Mycorrhizae

• Mycorrhizae are mutualistic relationships between a fungus and plant root.

• The fungus absorbs and concentrates various minerals for the plant.
• The fungus receives carbohydrates and amino acids from the plant.

Beneficial fungi

• Fungi have many medical uses, and are used for antibiotics, to relieve high blood pressure, to control bleeding, to treat
migraines, and to reduce organ rejection after transplantation.
• Fungi also serve as food (mushrooms) or aid in food production (yeast in bread).
• Fungi are also used in bioremediation, where they decompose pollutants in soil or
water.

Harmful fungi

• Fungi can parasitize humans and other living organisms, including agricultural crops.
• Athlete’s foot, ringworm, yeast infections, and oral thrush are infections in humans that are caused by fungi.