Chapter 29 - The Evolution and Diversity of Fungi - 29.2 - Fungi Are Decomposers, Parasites, Predators, or Mutualists - 29.2 Recap - Learning Outcomes - Page 621: 2

Lichen refers to a mutualistic meshwork of a fungi and a photosynthetic microorganism that is the prime example of a pioneer organism because of its ability to survive in virtually any environment. The fungi component of lichen absorbs nutrients and retains water for the photosynthetic component, usually an algae or cyanobacteria, to perform photosynthesis. This system of nutrient cycling is the reason for the tenability of lichen in harsh environments.

Lichen refers to a mutualistic meshwork of a fungi and a photosynthetic microorganism that is the prime example of a pioneer organism because of its ability to survive in virtually any environment. The fungi component of lichen absorbs nutrients and retains water for the photosynthetic component, usually an algae or cyanobacteria, to perform photosynthesis. This system of nutrient cycling is the reason for the tenability of lichen in harsh environments.