Lichens: A Remarkable Indicator of Pollution
Lichens, a unique organism formed through a symbiotic relationship between photobionts (green algae or cyanobacteria) and mycobionts (fungus), serve as remarkable pioneers of new territories. While their slow growth rate of approximately 1 mm per year enables them to capture airborne particles as nutrients, it also makes them vulnerable to air pollution. Lichens, which can exhibit vibrant colors depending on their mycobiont components, thrive best in non-polluted, cool montane forests, making them valuable bioindicators of air quality.
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