COLLEGE NAME: CMR NATIONAL PU COLLEGE, ITPL, BANGALORE

SAMPLE COLLECTED : LICHEN FROM A TREE TRUNK IN IMPHAL

DATE OF COLLECTION: 1/12/18

On our visit to Imphal, we observed lichens growing on tree trunks. We collected a sample to observe the symbiotic association of the phycobiont and mycobiont under foldscope. The lichen was Crustose Lichen and showed wonderful photosynthetic parts of alga with chlorophyll along with intermingled fungal mass without chlorophyll. We also observed rhyzoid-like stuctures from the part which was attached to the tree trunk. It was a very good learning experience as we could relate the presence of rhyzoid-like structures on the thallus of lichen which shows its evolutionary relationship with both algae and fungi. Also, lichens are pollution indicators, so it was wonderful to be observing lichens grow and being able to study them using foldscope.