Page 179 - The Microworld Miracle

LICHENS: FUNGI AND ALGAE SHARING A LIFE
Some fungi live symbiotically with algae, producing a new
combination is known as a lichen. The fungus obtains food from the

photosynthesis carried out by the algae, and thanks to the water
and minerals in the fungus, the algae is protected from drying out.
This new living colony of these two microorganisms generally
receives minerals from the air and rainwater. But it cannot resist
toxins in the air, and so can survive only where there is no pollu-

tion. Temperature, on the other hand, has little impact on lichen's
survival. Lichens thrive in both tropical regions and in cold areas
such as the Arctic and the South Pole.
Lichens generally live in clean air, and on tree trunks, moun-
tain peaks and bare rocks. As the fungus obtains food thanks to
photosynthesis, carried out by algae, algae obtain minerals thanks
to the way fungus breaks substances down. In addition, they also

thus obtain a safe shelter. The lichens use their fungi to slowly break
down the rock surface and lead to its being eroded by wind and HARUN YAHYA

The bread yeast seen in the pic- (ADNAN OKTAR)
tures above performs fermentation in
an oxygen-free environment. The result of
this activity is delicious foods. 177