CIMG5787

Lichens are mutualistic associations of fungi and one or more algae or cyanobacteria that work together to carve a life right out of solid rock. They can dry out for long periods and come back to life when it rains. They are the pioneers of life in places where there is no subsurface water for plants to tap into. Over time they can help create soils which plants later colonize. Fungi can be seen as "farming" the other species, and control the overall form and structure of the lichen colony.