Lichens and biofilms: Common collective growth imparts similar developmental strategies

Authors

Erin C. Carr, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Steven D. Harris, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Joshua R. Herr, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Wayne Riekhof, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

Document Type

Article

Date of this Version

2021

Citation

Published in Algal Research 54 (2021) 102217

doi:10.1016/j.algal.2021.102217

Comments

Copyright © 2021 Elsevier B.V. Used by permission.

Abstract

Lichens are traditionally defined as a symbiotic relationship between fungi and algae and/or cyanobacteria. This union forms a unique structure called the thallus, which attaches to surfaces such as rocks and tree bark. Recent reports challenge the view that lichens are comprised of one fungus and one photobiont, and instead suggest that they are a consortium of microbes. Much of lichen biology remains unknown as most of our knowledge of lichens is limited to morphological characteristics with little to no functional analysis of lichen genes. However, lichens and biofilms share many similar physiological traits which when compared may assist in our understanding of lichens. Similarities between the two are rooted in their lifestyle, where these microbes and their extracellular products attach themselves to a surface and grow in a community structure. Biofilms and lichens alike have distinct features that allow for their lifestyle and identification, such as specific developmental patterns, formation of an extracellular matrix, and their ability to resist abiotic stressors. We argue here that one can gain insight into the cellular processes and evolutionary origins of lichens, which are currently undetermined, by applying knowledge gleaned from studies on microbial biofilms, with a particular focus on fungal biofilms.