Líquen

Líquen is a fascinating symbiotic organism formed by a partnership between a fungus and an alga or cyanobacterium. The fungus provides structure and protection, while the alga or cyanobacterium performs photosynthesis, producing food for both. This relationship is so integrated that lichens are often considered a single entity, capable of surviving in harsh environments where neither partner could exist alone.

Lichens exhibit a remarkable diversity in form, color, and habitat. They can be found on rocks, trees, soil, and even man-made structures, appearing in crusty, leafy, or shrubby growths. Their colors range from vibrant greens and oranges to dull grays and blacks, often depending on the pigments produced by the fungal component or the photosynthetic partner.

These organisms play crucial ecological roles. They are pioneer species, colonizing bare rock and initiating soil formation. Many species are sensitive to air pollution, making them valuable bioindicators of environmental quality. Lichens also serve as a food source for various animals, including reindeer and insects, and their shed fragments contribute to nutrient cycling. Their study is known as lichenology.