Differences between Lichens and Mycorrhizae: Definition, Differences, and Functions

Lichens are composite organisms formed by a symbiotic relationship between a mycobiont (fungus) and a photobiont (algae or cyanobacteria). They can survive in extreme habitats from arid deserts to Arctic tundras due to the photosynthetic partner providing energy and the fungal partner offering structural protection. Research shows that lichens contribute up to 8% of global terrestrial nitrogen fixation, significantly impacting nutrient-poor ecosystems. Their presence is also widely used as bioindicators of air quality, given their sensitivity to pollutants like sulfur dioxide.

This Story also Contains

1. What are Lichens?
2. What are Mycorrhizae?
3. Differences Between Lichens and Mycorrhizae
4. Applications and Significance of Lichens and Mycorrhizae
5. Recommended Video on The Differences Between Lichens and Mycorrhizae

Mycorrhizae, on the other hand, are formed when fungi colonise plant roots, creating a network that enhances water and mineral nutrient uptake, especially phosphorus and nitrogen. Studies reveal that nearly 90% of all vascular plant families form mycorrhizal associations, boosting plant growth, disease resistance, and drought tolerance. They are essential to soil structure as fungal hyphae help bind soil particles, improving aeration and water retention. Due to their role in increasing agricultural productivity naturally, mycorrhizae are being actively studied for use in sustainable and organic farming systems.

What are Lichens?

Lichens are symbiotic organisms made from a combination of an alga and a fungus. The symbiotic relationship may be mutualistic or, more of a parasitic form, since the fungus benefits while the algal partner may be harmed. There are three kinds of lichens: foliose, which is leaf-like, fruticose, which is shrub-like, and crustose, which is crust-like. In the former, the fungus provides structure and protection, and the photosynthetic partner provides food via photosynthesis. Examples include Cladonia rangiferina, the reindeer lichen, which grows in tundra areas, and Xanthoria parietina, the sunburst lichen, common on rocks and tree bark in temperate areas.

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What are Mycorrhizae?

Mycorrhizae accompany roots as symbiotic associations with fungi. There are two general categories: ectomycorrhizae, sheathing roots, and endomycorrhizae, called arbuscular mycorrhizae because they penetrate inside root cells. Such relationships are very important in the biological activities of plants, consequently enhancing nutrient exchange, especially in phosphorus and nitrogen, improving water absorption, and promoting better growth and resistance to stress in plants. Examples of mycorrhizal plants include most trees, several of which form ectomycorrhizae, such as pines and oaks, and most crops, which form endomycorrhizae, such as wheat and maize.

Differences Between Lichens and Mycorrhizae

The table below indicates the major difference between lichens and mycorrhizae. Explore more Differences and Comparisons Articles in Biology to deepen your knowledge of key concepts in biology.

Importance in Ecology and Environment

Lichens and mycorrhizae perform some very important ecological functions in terrestrial ecosystems. Lichens are involved in soil formation, serve as food and habitat to many organisms, and generally act as bioindicators of environmental quality. Mycorrhizae enhance inorganic nutrition, improve soil structure, and increase the stress tolerance of plants, hence supporting plant diversity and productivity. The diversity of lichens and mycorrhizae has a huge effect on global biodiversity, as these interactions support complex interactions within ecosystems with increased stability and the maintenance of a lot of species.

Applications and Significance of Lichens and Mycorrhizae

Lichens are bioindicators; they provide very valuable information on air quality as they are sensitive to sulfur dioxide and heavy metals. By monitoring lichen populations, it therefore depicts the environmental health status and detects pollution levels. Mycorrhizae are also an important component in sustaining agriculture since they enhance plant uptake of nutrients, mainly phosphorus, through improved structure of the soil and increasing crop resistance to stress. The symbiosis of plants and mycorrhizae reduces the need for chemical fertilisers and increases environmentally friendly farming methods that ensure agricultural sustainability.

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Recommended Video on The Differences Between Lichens and Mycorrhizae