Abstract
In many respects lichens are unique organisms. The dual nature of the lichen thallus with its algal and fungal components ensures that many of the features of lichen morphology, physiology and reproduction have no parallels in any other group of plants. The general biology and physiology of lichens has been adequately reviewed by Smith (1962), Kershaw (1963), Ahmadjian (1967), Hale (1968), Ahmadjian and Hale (1973), and Farrar (1973). The thallus morphology is invariably simple with the algal cells either scattered throughout the thallus or organized into a distinct layer. There are no morphological adaptations such as cuticular layers and stomata for controlling water loss, and water uptake is a passive process.
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Harris, G.P. (1976). Water Content and Productivity of Lichens. In: Lange, O.L., Kappen, L., Schulze, ED. (eds) Water and Plant Life. Ecological Studies, vol 19. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-66429-8_28
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-66429-8_28
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