Lichen striatus is a common entity that may be confused with an epidermal nevus. However, lichen striatus is not present at birth and is associated with spontaneous resolution over time. On histology, ...

Understanding the Context

The meaning of LICHEN is any of numerous complex plantlike organisms made up of an alga or a cyanobacterium and a fungus growing in symbiotic association on a solid surface (such as on a rock or the bark of trees). The shape of a lichen is usually determined by the organization of the fungal filaments. [36] The nonreproductive tissues, or vegetative body parts, are called the thallus. Lichens are grouped by thallus type, since the thallus is usually the most visually prominent part of the lichen.

Key Insights

Lichen, any of about 15,000 species of plantlike organisms that consist of a symbiotic association of algae (usually green) or cyanobacteria and fungi. They are found worldwide and occur in a variety of environmental conditions. A lichen is a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and a photosynthetic partner (algae, cyanobacteria, or both). Lichens grow all over the world and can even survive exposure to space. What Is a Lichen?

Final Thoughts

Definition and Facts - Science Notes and Projects The dominant partner is the fungus, which gives the lichen the majority of its characteristics, from its thallus shape to its fruiting bodies. The alga can be either a green alga or a blue-green alga, otherwise known as cyanobacteria. Some lichen contains aromatic substances in their thallus and are used to produce various cosmetics. Cetraria islandica contain carbohydrates in the form of lichenin.