Question

Why are lichens called a pollution indicator?

Answer 1

Lichens:

1. The fungal part is called a mycobiont and the non-fungal part is called a photobiont which contains chlorophyll.
2. Many lichen partners also include one photobiont & one mycobiont that is not universal & there are lichens with more than one photobiont partner.
3. Lichens also produce pigments and other secondary compounds which can be used as dyes.
4. In some parts, they are also used as delicacies & also in traditional medicine. Some of the lichens can also degrade polyester resins and pollutants like lead and copper.
5. Lichens usually grow in a wide range of environmental conditions. But they are quite sensitive to atmospheric pollutants like sulfur and nitrogen.
6. Air pollution also leads to a decline in the lichen population and thus, they can be used as indicator organisms.