The complex exchange of resources drives the evolution of lichen symbioses
In short: Researchers reviewing the evolutionary biology of lichens found that these organisms thrive through a complex 'marketplace' of biological rewards and penalties. By examining the relationship between fungi and phototrophs, the study highlights how the exchange of carbohydrates and protective services facilitates survival in harsh environments.
The review explores how fungal symbionts use carbohydrates from algae or cyanobacteria to create polyols, which help them survive extreme drying. While these nutrients aid survival, they also impose growth costs. This study suggests that the ability of symbionts to participate in multiple different partnerships may be a key driver of lichen diversification.
Why it matters: Understanding the 'marketplace' of nutrients and protection helps explain how lichens colonize the most extreme environments on Earth.
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Sources
- Source: Research: Spribille et al. (2022). Evolutionary biology of lichen symbioses. New Phytologist. · cc-by-nc-nd
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