Objective
To explore three major forms of lichens: Crustose, Foliose, and Fruticose. |
Introduction
Lichens are fascinating organisms composed of a symbiotic relationship between fungi and photosynthetic partners (algae or cyanobacteria). In this lab, we'll explore three major forms of lichens: Crustose, Foliose, and Fruticose. |
Materials
Various specimens of lichens (Crustose, Foliose, and Fruticose)
Hand lenses or magnifying glasses
Lab notebook
Pencils, pens, markers
Camera (optional, for documentation) |
Procedure
1. Crustose Lichens |
1. Examine the crustose lichen specimen closely.
2. Description: Write a brief description of the crustose lichen's physical appearance. |
2. Foliose Lichens |
1. Observe the foliose lichen specimen with a hand lens.
2.Description: Describe the foliose lichen's characteristics, including color, texture, and overall shape. |
3. Fruticose Lichens |
1. Examine the fruticose lichen specimen closely.
2. Description: Write a description of the fruticose lichen's growth pattern and any visible structures. |
4. Record Observations |
Create detailed notes on: Location Substrate (where the lichen is growing) Physical characteristics (color, texture, size, shape) Any unique features or patterns observed. Draw well-labeled diagrams of crustose, fruticose, and foliose lichens. |
Observation Table
Characteristic |
Crustose Lichen |
Foliose Lichen |
Fruticose Lichen |
Attachment |
Tightly adherent to substrate |
Loosely attached to substrate |
Not tightly attached, often bushy |
Growth Form |
Flat and crust-like |
Leaf-like structure |
Three-dimensional, shrubby or branching |
Upper Surface |
Often indistinct or like lower surface |
Well-defined upper surface |
Distinct upper surface |
Lower Surface |
Directly attached to substrate |
Usually lighter in color, may have rhizines |
May have holdfast structures |
Color |
Typically pale to dark colors |
A range of colors, often vibrant |
A variety of colors |
Texture |
Granular or powdery |
Variable, may be smooth or textured |
Bushy, tufted, or wiry |
Ecological Niche |
Can colonize exposed rock surfaces |
Common on tree bark or wood |
Found in a variety of habitats, including open areas |
Habitat |
Often found in open or exposed habitats |
Can inhabit tree trunks, rocks, or soil |
Often on trees, rocks, or other surfaces |
Examples |
Crustose coralline lichen, Rhizocarpon spp. |
Usnea spp., Parmelia spp. |
Cladonia spp., Cladina spp. |
|
Created By
Metadata
Comments
No comments yet. Add yours below!
Add a Comment
Related Cheat Sheets
More Cheat Sheets by UmeshJagtap