Lichens, which are capable of initiating ecological succession even on

Lichens, which are capable of initiating ecological succession even on a bare rock, are actually a symbiotic association of

algae and bacteria

algae and fungi

bacteria and fungi

fungi and mosses

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This question was previously asked in

UPSC IAS – 2014

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Lichens are a symbiotic association between a fungus and a photosynthetic organism, typically an alga or a cyanobacterium.

In this symbiosis, the fungus (mycobiont) provides structure, protection from drying, and absorbs water and minerals from the environment. The alga or cyanobacterium (photobiont) provides food through photosynthesis, producing carbohydrates that the fungus utilizes. This mutualistic relationship allows lichens to colonize harsh environments, including bare rock, where neither organism could easily survive alone.

Lichens are pioneers in primary ecological succession on bare rock. They secrete acids that help weather the rock, breaking it down and creating initial soil particles, which allows other plants to eventually grow. They are also excellent indicators of air quality because they are very sensitive to atmospheric pollution.

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