description

Lichens: a symbiotic association between a fungus and a photosynthetic partner, usually a cyanobacterium or green alga. The fungi hyphae provide protection and hold moisture while food is provided by the photosynthetic partner.

→ UPPER CORTEX:

Short, thick hyphae pressed together to form a protective layer.

→ PHOTOSYNTHETIC LAYER:

In most lichens, the algae are found in a single layer under the protective cortex.

→ PITH:

A loosely woven mat of hyphae holding moisture.

→ LOWER CORTEX:

Just like the upper cortex protecting the bottom of the group.

→ RHIZOMES:

Bundles of hyphae anchoring the group.