DSC_9886 Seaweed lichen (Lichina pygmaea var. intermedia) encrusts rocks and boulders from just below high tide levels to some distance above. A lichen is a composite organism that arises from algae or cyanobacteria living among filaments of multiple fungi in a symbiotic relationship. In Lichina, the cyanobacterial partner is usually either Calothrix or Dichothrix. Lichina is common on rocky coasts, and is widespread throughout New Zealand. It is possible there are several un-named species. Aquarium Point, Otago Harbour *
DSC_4746 Seaweed lichen (Lichina pygmaea var. intermedia) detail. Encrusts rocks and boulders from just below high tide levels to some distance above. A lichen is a composite organism that arises from algae or cyanobacteria living among filaments of multiple fungi in a symbiotic relationship. In Lichina, the cyanobacterial partner is usually either Calothrix or Dichothrix. Lichina is common on rocky coasts, and is widespread throughout New Zealand. It is possible there are several un-named species. Aquarium Point, Otago Harbour *
DSC_4256 A biofilm of benthic microalgae, or microphytobenthos (MPB) growing on the surface of estuarine intertidal flats, stains the mud surface green in summer. Tokerau Beach, Karikari Peninsula *
