Differences between Lichens and Mycorrhizae

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

Edited By Irshad Anwar | Updated on Jul 02, 2025 06:06 PM IST

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

What are Lichens?
What are Mycorrhizae?
Differences Between Lichens and Mycorrhizae
Applications and Significance of Lichens and Mycorrhizae
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Differences between Lichens and Mycorrhizae: Definition, Differences, and Functions

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.

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.

	Lichens	Mycorrhizae
Symbiotic Partners	Fungus with algae/cyanobacteria	Fungus with plant roots
Source of Food	Algae act as the source of food for fungi.	Higher plants act as the source of food for fungi.
Function and Benefit	Mutualism for survival in extreme environments.	Facilitate Nutrient uptake and improve the growth of plants.
Ecological Importance	They act as environmental indicators as they are very sensitive to pollution.	They form a network in the soil and prevent the leaching away of the nutrients.
Industrial Importance	Lichens are used to make dyes, extract chemicals and some antimicrobial substances.	None
Structure	Thallus structure with distinct layers	Fungal hyphae extending into plant root cells
Types and Diversity	Diverse forms based on growth habit (foliose, fruticose, crustose)	Different types based on fungal association (ectomycorrhizae, endomycorrhizae)
Edibility	Lichens are mostly poisonous.	Fruiting bodies of mycorrhizae are edible delicacies, namely truffles, chanterelles, porcini mushrooms and morels.
Type of Fungi	Ascomycetes and basidiomycetes are present as fungi in lichens.	Glomeromycetes, Zygomycetes, Ascomycetes and Basidiomycetes are present as fungi in mycorrhizae.

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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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the main difference between lichens and mycorrhizae?

While lichens are symbiotic associations between fungi and algae/cyanobacteria, mycorrhizae are symbiotic associations between fungi and plant roots.

2. How do lichens and mycorrhizae benefit their partners?

Symbiotically, lichens give a stable environment to algae or cyanobacteria, while mycorrhizae enhance the ability to capture nutrients for plants.

3. Where can lichens and mycorrhizae be found in nature?

Unlike mycorrhizae, which are normally found in soil ecosystems along with plant roots, lichens can be seen in temperate diverse habitats ranging from arctic tundras to deserts.

4. Are lichens and mycorrhizae harmful to plants?

No, both lichens and mycorrhizae are associations, which more or less benefit both partners, increasing the ability of nutrient uptake and also protecting them.

5. How can lichens be used as bioindicators?

Lichens are indicators of air pollution and can be used to monitor the quality of air in urban and industrial localities.

6. How do mycorrhizae benefit plants?

Mycorrhizae enhance plant nutrient uptake, particularly phosphorus and nitrogen, by extending the plant's root system. They also improve water absorption, protect roots from pathogens, and contribute to soil structure and stability, ultimately promoting plant growth and health.

7. How do lichens contribute to soil formation?

Lichens contribute to soil formation by breaking down rocks through physical and chemical weathering. They secrete weak acids that dissolve minerals and trap dust particles, gradually accumulating organic matter. This process creates a substrate for other organisms, initiating soil development.

8. What is the significance of mycorrhizal networks in forests?

Mycorrhizal networks, often called "wood wide web," connect multiple plants through fungal hyphae. These networks facilitate nutrient and carbon exchange between plants, support seedling establishment, and enable communication between trees, contributing to forest ecosystem resilience and biodiversity.

9. Can lichens grow on any surface?

Lichens can grow on a wide variety of surfaces, including rocks, tree bark, soil, and even man-made structures. Their ability to thrive in diverse environments is due to their unique symbiotic structure and adaptations to withstand extreme conditions.

10. What is the difference between obligate and facultative mycorrhizae?

Obligate mycorrhizae are essential for plant survival and cannot complete their life cycle without a host plant. Facultative mycorrhizae can live independently but form symbiotic relationships with plants when conditions are favorable. This distinction affects plant-fungal interactions in different ecosystems.

11. How do mycorrhizae differ from lichens?

Mycorrhizae are symbiotic associations between fungi and plant roots, while lichens are symbiotic relationships between fungi and algae or cyanobacteria. Mycorrhizae occur underground and benefit plants, whereas lichens are visible structures that can grow on various surfaces and are self-sustaining.

12. Are all mycorrhizal relationships the same?

No, there are two main types of mycorrhizal relationships: ectomycorrhizae and endomycorrhizae (also called arbuscular mycorrhizae). Ectomycorrhizae form a sheath around plant roots, while endomycorrhizae penetrate root cells. Different plant species form associations with specific types of mycorrhizal fungi.

13. What is the difference between crustose, foliose, and fruticose lichens?

These terms describe different growth forms of lichens. Crustose lichens form a crust-like layer tightly attached to the substrate. Foliose lichens have a leaf-like structure with distinct upper and lower surfaces. Fruticose lichens are shrub-like or hair-like, often with branching structures.

14. How do mycorrhizae affect plant water relations?

Mycorrhizae improve plant water relations by increasing the surface area for water absorption through their extensive hyphal networks. They also enhance plant drought tolerance by altering root hydraulic conductivity and influencing plant hormone production related to water stress responses.

15. What is the main function of lichens in ecosystems?

Lichens play crucial roles in ecosystems as pioneer species, helping to break down rocks and create soil. They also serve as bioindicators of air quality, provide food and shelter for various animals, and contribute to nutrient cycling in ecosystems.

16. Can plants survive without mycorrhizae?

While some plants can survive without mycorrhizae, the vast majority of land plants form mycorrhizal associations. Plants without these associations often struggle to obtain sufficient nutrients and water, especially in nutrient-poor soils, leading to reduced growth and overall health.

17. How do lichens adapt to extreme environments?

Lichens have various adaptations to survive in extreme environments, including the ability to enter a dormant state during unfavorable conditions, produce protective pigments, and efficiently absorb water and nutrients from the air. These adaptations allow them to colonize harsh habitats like deserts and polar regions.

18. What is the economic importance of mycorrhizae?

Mycorrhizae have significant economic importance in agriculture and forestry. They enhance crop yields, reduce the need for fertilizers, improve soil structure, and increase plant resistance to drought and pathogens. In forestry, they support tree growth and forest ecosystem health.

19. How do lichens act as bioindicators?

Lichens are sensitive to air pollution, particularly sulfur dioxide. Different lichen species have varying tolerances to pollutants, so their presence or absence can indicate air quality. Scientists use lichen diversity and abundance to monitor environmental health and detect pollution levels.

20. How do mycorrhizal fungi obtain carbon?

Mycorrhizal fungi obtain carbon primarily from their plant partners. Plants transfer a significant portion of the carbon they fix through photosynthesis to their fungal symbionts. This carbon transfer is a key aspect of the mutualistic relationship between plants and mycorrhizal fungi.

21. What are lichens?

Lichens are unique symbiotic organisms composed of a fungus and an alga or cyanobacterium. The fungus provides structure and protection, while the alga or cyanobacterium produces food through photosynthesis. This mutualistic relationship allows lichens to thrive in diverse and often harsh environments.

22. How do lichens reproduce?

Lichens can reproduce both sexually and asexually. Sexual reproduction involves the fungal partner producing spores, while asexual reproduction occurs through fragmentation or the production of specialized structures called soredia or isidia, which contain both fungal and algal components.

23. How do lichens obtain nutrients?

Lichens obtain nutrients primarily through atmospheric deposition and the photosynthetic activity of their algal or cyanobacterial partner. They can also absorb minerals from the surfaces they grow on and trap dust particles, which provide additional nutrients.

24. Can lichens fix nitrogen?

Some lichens can fix nitrogen, but only those that have cyanobacteria as their photosynthetic partner. These lichens play a crucial role in nitrogen cycling, particularly in nutrient-poor ecosystems like deserts and newly exposed rock surfaces.

25. What is the role of lichens in food webs?

Lichens serve as food sources for various animals, including reindeer, snails, and insects. They also provide shelter and nesting material for birds and small mammals. In some ecosystems, lichens are crucial components of food webs, supporting biodiversity and ecosystem functioning.

26. What is the role of fungi in mycorrhizal associations?

In mycorrhizal associations, fungi form extensive networks of thread-like structures called hyphae that extend into the soil. These hyphae increase the surface area for nutrient and water absorption, effectively acting as extensions of the plant's root system.

27. What is the difference between ectomycorrhizae and endomycorrhizae?

Ectomycorrhizae form a fungal sheath around plant roots and penetrate between root cells, while endomycorrhizae (arbuscular mycorrhizae) penetrate root cell walls and form structures called arbuscules within the cells. Ectomycorrhizae are common in woody plants, while endomycorrhizae are found in most herbaceous plants.

28. How do mycorrhizae affect plant community structure?

Mycorrhizae influence plant community structure by affecting plant competition, facilitating resource sharing between plants, and supporting the establishment of seedlings. They can also influence plant species composition by favoring certain plant species over others based on their mycorrhizal associations.

29. How do mycorrhizae contribute to soil carbon sequestration?

Mycorrhizae contribute to soil carbon sequestration by transferring carbon from plants to the soil. Fungal hyphae produce glomalin, a glycoprotein that helps stabilize soil aggregates and store carbon. This process enhances soil structure and plays a role in mitigating climate change.

30. How do mycorrhizae influence plant responses to climate change?

Mycorrhizae can help plants adapt to climate change by improving their resilience to drought, temperature extremes, and soil salinity. They also facilitate nutrient uptake in changing environments and may help plants migrate to new habitats as climate zones shift.

31. What are the main threats to lichen biodiversity?

The main threats to lichen biodiversity include air pollution, habitat destruction, climate change, and over-harvesting (for some species used in traditional medicine or dyes). Lichens' slow growth rates and sensitivity to environmental changes make them particularly vulnerable to these threats.

32. What is the relationship between lichens and succession?

Lichens are often primary colonizers in ecological succession, particularly on bare rock surfaces or newly exposed substrates. They contribute to soil formation and create conditions suitable for other organisms, paving the way for more complex plant communities to establish.

33. What is the role of lichens in nitrogen cycling?

Lichens, particularly those with cyanobacterial partners, play a crucial role in nitrogen cycling by fixing atmospheric nitrogen. They also trap airborne particles containing nitrogen and release nitrogen compounds when they decompose, contributing to nutrient availability in ecosystems.

34. How do mycorrhizae influence plant-pathogen interactions?

Mycorrhizae can enhance plant resistance to pathogens through various mechanisms, including improved plant nutrition, physical barrier formation, production of antimicrobial compounds, and priming of plant defense responses. This protective effect contributes to overall plant health and ecosystem resilience.

35. What is the significance of lichens in biogeochemical cycling?

Lichens play important roles in biogeochemical cycling by weathering rocks, fixing nitrogen, and accumulating elements from the atmosphere. They contribute to the cycling of carbon, nitrogen, and other nutrients in ecosystems, particularly in nutrient-poor environments where other organisms struggle to survive.

36. How do mycorrhizae affect plant competition?

Mycorrhizae can influence plant competition by altering resource availability and distribution among plants. They can create common mycorrhizal networks that facilitate resource sharing between plants, potentially reducing competition. However, they may also enhance the competitive ability of certain plant species over others.

37. What are the challenges in cultivating lichens?

Cultivating lichens is challenging due to their slow growth rates, specific environmental requirements, and the complexity of maintaining the symbiotic relationship between the fungal and algal partners. This difficulty has implications for conservation efforts and potential commercial applications of lichens.

38. How do mycorrhizae contribute to ecosystem restoration?

Mycorrhizae play a crucial role in ecosystem restoration by improving soil structure, enhancing plant establishment and growth, and facilitating nutrient cycling. Inoculating degraded soils with mycorrhizal fungi can accelerate the recovery of plant communities and ecosystem functions.

39. What is the relationship between lichens and air quality?

Lichens are highly sensitive to air pollution, particularly sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. Different lichen species have varying tolerances to pollutants, making them excellent bioindicators of air quality. The presence or absence of certain lichen species can indicate long-term air quality trends in an area.

40. How do mycorrhizae affect plant responses to heavy metal contamination?

Mycorrhizae can help plants tolerate heavy metal contamination by sequestering metals in fungal structures, altering metal speciation in the soil, and enhancing plant nutrition. This relationship has potential applications in phytoremediation of contaminated soils.

41. What is the role of lichens in polar ecosystems?

In polar ecosystems, lichens are often dominant organisms due to their ability to withstand extreme cold and desiccation. They provide food for animals like reindeer, contribute to nutrient cycling, and play a crucial role in soil formation in these harsh environments.

42. How do mycorrhizae influence plant phenology?

Mycorrhizal associations can affect plant phenology by influencing nutrient uptake and plant hormone levels. This can lead to changes in the timing of plant growth, flowering, and fruiting, which has implications for plant-pollinator interactions and ecosystem dynamics in the face of climate change.

43. What is the significance of lichens in traditional medicine?

Various lichen species have been used in traditional medicine across cultures for their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. However, their slow growth rates and sensitivity to environmental changes pose challenges for sustainable harvesting and conservation.

44. How do mycorrhizae affect plant responses to elevated CO2 levels?

Mycorrhizal associations can enhance plant responses to elevated CO2 levels by improving nutrient uptake, particularly phosphorus, which is often limiting in high CO2 conditions. This interaction may influence plant community responses to climate change and carbon sequestration in ecosystems.

45. What is the role of lichens in rock weathering and soil formation?

Lichens contribute to rock weathering through both physical and chemical processes. They can penetrate rock surfaces and secrete organic acids that dissolve minerals. Over time, this weathering process, combined with the accumulation of organic matter from lichen growth and decay, contributes to soil formation.

46. How do mycorrhizae influence plant secondary metabolite production?

Mycorrhizal associations can alter plant secondary metabolite production by influencing plant nutrition, hormone levels, and defense responses. This can affect plant chemical defenses against herbivores and pathogens, as well as the production of compounds important for human use, such as medicinal plants.

47. What is the significance of lichens in dating geological events?

Some lichen species grow at predictable rates, allowing scientists to use a technique called lichenometry to date geological events or exposed surfaces. By measuring the size of certain lichen species, researchers can estimate the minimum age of rock surfaces, glacial deposits, or archaeological structures.

48. How do mycorrhizae affect plant responses to salinity stress?

Mycorrhizal fungi can help plants cope with salinity stress by improving nutrient uptake, particularly phosphorus, enhancing water absorption, and altering plant hormone levels. They may also help regulate ion uptake and distribution within plants, mitigating the negative effects of excess salt.

49. What is the role of lichens in biological soil crusts?

Lichens are important components of biological soil crusts, particularly in arid and semi-arid ecosystems. They help stabilize soil surfaces, prevent erosion, enhance water infiltration, and contribute to nutrient cycling. Biological soil crusts play crucial roles in maintaining ecosystem functions in these environments.

50. How do mycorrhizae influence plant evolution?

Mycorrhizal associations have played a significant role in plant evolution, potentially facilitating the colonization of land by early plants. The co-evolution of plants and mycorrhizal fungi has influenced plant morphology, physiology, and ecology, shaping the diversity and distribution of plant species we see today.

51. What is the importance of lichens in monitoring climate change?

Lichens are sensitive to changes in temperature and moisture, making them valuable indicators of climate change. Changes in lichen distribution, abundance, and community composition can provide insights into long-term climate trends and their impacts on ecosystems.

52. How do mycorrhizae affect plant responses to herbivory?

Mycorrhizal associations can influence plant responses to herbivory by altering plant nutrition, chemical defenses, and tolerance to damage. Mycorrhizal plants may produce more defensive compounds or have enhanced ability to compensate for herbivore damage through improved resource acquisition.

53. What is the role of lichens in nutrient hot spots in ecosystems?

Lichens can create nutrient hot spots in ecosystems by accumulating nutrients from the atmosphere and their substrates. When lichens die and decompose, they release these accumulated nutrients, creating patches of higher nutrient availability that can influence local plant and microbial communities.

54. How do mycorrhizae contribute to plant-soil feedback loops?

Mycorrhizae play a crucial role in plant-soil feedback loops by influencing soil microbial communities, nutrient cycling, and plant community composition. These feedback loops can have long-term effects on ecosystem structure and function, potentially influencing succession and ecosystem stability.

55. What is the potential of lichens in biomonitoring and environmental management?

Lichens have significant potential in biomonitoring and environmental management due to their sensitivity to air pollution and environmental changes. They can be used to monitor air quality, track the effects of climate change, and assess ecosystem health. This information can inform conservation strategies and environmental policies.