All forests are composed of intricate relationships with various species of animals and plants. One symbiotic relationship we may not always notice is the relationship of fungi and alga coming together to create lichen. Algae can survive in both fresh and saltwater on their own, but lack a root system. A fungi is capable of growing their own root system, but lacks one crucial component, chlorophyll, deeming the fungi unable to create its own food source. By teaming up, the fungi and alga grow intertwined with one another. Alga is able to utilize the fungi high moisture level and root structure to survive outside of water, and the fungi has a food source rendered from the alga’s chlorophyll. Both the alga, and fungi rely on one another, creating the symbiotic relationship of lichen. There are approximately 3,600 species of lichens throughout North America. New York State alone has over 800 species of lichen, one of those being British soldier lichen. It is comprised of “Cladonia cristatella” fungus and the alga “Trebuxia erici.”
This lichen can be found growing around the base of trees, and also along dead trees. It can grow up to an inch tall, with stem and branchlike structures in a grayish, green color. At the top of these structures, is a bright red spore-producing body called apothecia that may remind one of the red coats of British soldiers during the American Revolution. This is what gives them their name “British soldier lichen”. Even though the apothecia structures make and spread viable fungi spores, these spores do not carry the alga with them and are thus unable to produce new British soldier lichens. Instead, this lichen, similar to other species of lichens, spreads when pieces of branches fall off and propagate in the same area. Lichens are highly sensitive to moisture, temperature and air pollutants found in the environment and are an excellent monitor of climate and indicator of air quality. Be sure to be on the lookout for British soldier lichen and other lichens while on a walk as they are a sign for a healthy ecosystem and a successful relationship between fungi and alga.
by Nadia Trejo
