Lichens

We talked a bit about lichens in both our algal and fungal labs...why? Because lichens are symbiotic organisms comprised of a mycobiont (the fungus) and a photobiont (green algae or cyanobacteria). Found in almost every habitat on earth, lichens exhibit a fascinating array of morphologies and ecological characteristics. Check out the portrait gallery in Lichens of North America to see a sampling of this diversity. Then go outside and find some on your own!

A stunning lichen illustration by 19th century German naturalist Ernst Haeckel