Question

Difference between foliose and fruticose lichens.

Answer 1

Foliose Lichen:

1. Thallus- Flat,leaf-like, irregularly lobed
2. Rhizoid like outgrowths called rhizines develop on lower surface of thallus for attachment to the substaratum.
3. Mostly terricolous i.e. found growing on trees.
4. Examples: Physcia, Parmelia, Peltigera

Fruticose  Lichen:

1. Thallus is complex and much branched like a bush and attached to the substratum with the help of a flattened disc.
2. Fruiting body-Apothecial type
3. Mostly terricolous i.e. found growing on trees.
4. Examples: Evernia , Cladonia, Usnea