It is difficult to overestimate the importance of lichens in nature and human life. Indeed, despite their tiny size, they are an essential element in the Earth’s ecosystem. Moreover, over many years of research, man has learned to use lichens in various fields of production.
But, unfortunately, not many are able to boast that they are familiar with this amazing plant family. In order to fix this, we will talk about the true meaning of lichens in nature and human life.
What is lichen?
Lichen is an amazing symbiosis of mushrooms and algae. At the same time, lichens have incorporated the best qualities of both families. They absorb water quite quickly, since this is characteristic of fungi, and algae genes provide them with a photosynthesis mechanism. That is why lichen is unpretentious to its environment and can survive even in the harshest climate.
But what is the significance of lichens in nature and human life? Start with the fact that these plants significantly affect their own habitat. This is due to the fact that lichen acid partially destroys the surface, thereby lowering its density and allowing weaker plants to break through to the light.
The ecological significance of lichens in nature and in human life
Like any plant, lichens process carbon dioxide while releasing oxygen. This fact takes on even greater significance if we take into account that the plants mentioned feel good in those parts of the world where others simply do not survive.
Lichens are also excellent biosensors. They instantly respond to air pollution. Therefore, scientists, studying the ecological situation in the region, first of all take lichen samples for analysis. In addition, these plants retain heavy metals within themselves , therefore, even minor minor bursts of radiation can be detected thanks to them.
The practical significance of lichens in nature and human life
Lichens are a source of carbohydrates for many animals. For example, wild goats love this delicacy very much, so they wander from place to place in his search. In the North, where winter lasts a very long time, lichens became the basis of the diet for animals such as elk, deer, wild boar.
But among people there are those who are not averse to feasting on this representative of the flora. True, not every type of lichen can be used for this purpose. So, lichen manna, as well as gyrofora, is considered edible. The latter, by the way, is the basis for many Japanese dishes.
Industrial Importance of Lichens
So, the role of lichens in nature and human life is extremely clear, but what about the industrial side of the issue? It is probably no secret that in recent years this plant has been actively used in many industries.
So, oak moss and plum evernia are added to perfumes in order to give them special notes. And some varieties of lichen are used to create paints. The reason for this is all the same property to hold metals.
But much more important is the fact that many drugs are made of them. For example, parmelia is used to prepare a medication for epilepsy, Icelandic moss helps with poisoning, and lobaria relieves pneumonia. In addition, some varieties of lichen have antibacterial properties.