DSC_4706 Cyanobacteria (Rivularia sp.), commonly known as blue-green algae, are not actually algae, although they are photosynthetic. Some cyanobacteria are able to form a symbiotic relationship with fungi, producing entirely new composite organisms we call lichens. Quarantine Point, Otago Harbour *
DSC_3449 Cyanobacteria (Rivularia sp.), commonly known as blue-green algae, are not actually algae, although they are photosynthetic. Some cyanobacteria are able to form a symbiotic relationship with fungi, producing entirely new composite organisms we call lichens. Pudding Island, Otago Harbour *
DSC_9890 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 *
