Question

Q) Write the economic importance of Lichens.​

Answer 1

Answer:

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Explanation:

Economic importance of lichens is as follows: They are a good pollution indicators. They do not grow in polluted areas. They grow on rocks and release some chemicals that can disintegrate rocks and this results in rock weathering.

Answer 2

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(i) Early Colonisers : Lichens are early or pioneer colonisers of barren rocks, cliffs, mountains and new terrains. During their growth, lichens stick to the rocks and cliffs by secreting acids. It produces minute crevices where organic matter accumulates. It paves the way for growth of mosses.

(ii) Food : In tundra, Cladonia rangifera (Reindeer Moss) constitutes the staple food of reindeer, caribou, musk, ox etc. Cetraria islandica (Iceland Moss) is used as a food article in Iceland, Sweden and Norway. Lecanors esculenta is regarded as bread of heaven by Jews. Parmelia (Rock Flower) is also a table delicacy. Dermatocarpon miniatum (Stone Mushroom) is a vegetable in Japan.

(iii) Dyes : Orchil is obtained from Rocella tinctoria. The latter was also the source of litmus (R. montagnei) before the advent of synthetic products. Litmus is a pH indicator.

(iv) Perfumes : Scented incense is got from species of Ramalina and Evernia.

(v) Medicines : Usnic acid got from Usnea (Old Man's Beard) and Cladonia has antibiotic properties. It is used in preperation of ointment from burns and wounds.

(vi) Air Pollution : Decrease in lichen population of an area is indicative of $\sf SO_2$ pollution.

(vii) Fires : In hot season, Usnea may produce forest fires.