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Lichens: Thallus Structure: Reproduction: Types: Habitat: Rhizinae: Symbiotic Association: Mutualism Video Lecture | Botany Optional for UPSC

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FAQs on Lichens: Thallus Structure: Reproduction: Types: Habitat: Rhizinae: Symbiotic Association: Mutualism Video Lecture - Botany Optional for UPSC

1. What is the structure of a lichen thallus?
Ans. The thallus of a lichen is a composite structure made up of fungal hyphae and photosynthetic partners, usually algae or cyanobacteria. The thallus can be classified into three main forms: crustose (crust-like), foliose (leaf-like), and fruticose (shrub-like). These structures provide protection, moisture retention, and surface area for photosynthesis, allowing lichens to thrive in various environments.
2. How do lichens reproduce?
Ans. Lichens reproduce through both sexual and asexual methods. Asexually, they can produce soredia or isidia, which are small fragments containing both fungal and algal cells that can disperse and form new lichens. Sexually, the fungal partner produces spores that require compatible algal cells to form a new lichen. This dual reproduction strategy allows lichens to adapt to diverse habitats.
3. What types of lichens exist, and how are they classified?
Ans. Lichens are classified into three main types based on their thallus morphology: crustose lichens, which are tightly attached to the substrate; foliose lichens, which have leaf-like lobes; and fruticose lichens, which are branched and often resemble shrubs. Each type has adapted to specific environmental conditions, influencing their distribution and ecological roles.
4. What are the habitats of lichens and their ecological significance?
Ans. Lichens can be found in a wide range of habitats, including rocky surfaces, tree bark, soil, and even extreme environments like deserts and tundras. They play a crucial role in ecosystems by contributing to soil formation, providing food and habitat for various organisms, and serving as bioindicators of environmental health due to their sensitivity to pollution and climate changes.
5. How do lichens exemplify mutualism in their symbiotic associations?
Ans. Lichens are a prime example of mutualism, where the fungal partner provides structure and protection, while the photosynthetic partner (alga or cyanobacterium) supplies carbohydrates through photosynthesis. This symbiotic relationship enhances the survival and proliferation of both organisms, allowing them to colonize environments that neither could easily inhabit alone.
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