
- 288 pages
- English
- PDF
- Available on iOS & Android
About this book
A richly illustrated guide to lichens and their biology
Existing at the margins of life, lichens are the result of symbiotic relationships between fungi and photosynthesizing partners in the form of algae or cyanobacteria. Comprising more than twenty thousand species, lichens are pioneers in diverse ecosystems, colonizing virtually any surface and growing at almost any altitude. Found in rainforests, polar regions, deserts, and your backyard, lichens embody a paradox of toughness and sensitivity, surviving trips to space yet endangered by even the slightest environmental changes from industrial pollution here on Earth. Lichens grow everywhere, but only on their own terms: no one has ever fully assembled a lichen in the lab from its component parts. The Lives of Lichens explores all facets of these peculiar organisms, blending stunning macrophotography and graphics with in-depth coverage of profiled species to provide an unforgettable tour of the marvelous world of lichens.
- Features a wealth of color illustrations
- Covers symbiosis, biology, architecture, evolution, taxonomy, and much more
- Provides an up-close look at lichens in their ecosystems
- Discusses human relationships with lichens
- Essential reading for nature lovers everywhere
Frequently asked questions
- Essential is ideal for learners and professionals who enjoy exploring a wide range of subjects. Access the Essential Library with 800,000+ trusted titles and best-sellers across business, personal growth, and the humanities. Includes unlimited reading time and Standard Read Aloud voice.
- Complete: Perfect for advanced learners and researchers needing full, unrestricted access. Unlock 1.4M+ books across hundreds of subjects, including academic and specialized titles. The Complete Plan also includes advanced features like Premium Read Aloud and Research Assistant.
Please note we cannot support devices running on iOS 13 and Android 7 or earlier. Learn more about using the app.
Information
Table of contents
- Cover
- Contents
- Introduction
- The Archetypal Symbiosis
- The Players
- The Biology of Lichens
- Lichen Architecture
- Evolution and Taxonomy
- Lichen Ecosystems
- Lichens and People
- Glossary
- Useful Resources
- Index
- Picture Credits
- Acknowledgments