Question

What are the characteristic features of lichens?

Answer 1

Grows in areas where either fungi or algae could not survive alone: rocks, cement, rooftops, trees, and newly exposed soil. world wide distribution and can grow in the extremes of temperature and heat Grows very slowly, secreting acids that break down rocks. Accumulate nutrients needed for plant growth. Sensitive to air pollution especially sulphur dioxide therefore absent in and around large cities. Hence lichens are often considered as indicators of air purity.