Lichen Reproduction Process

This video features an overview of lichen reproduction. Lichens are a partnership between a fungus and an alga. There are two primary ways lichens reproduce: sexually and asexually. Lichens reproduce sexually via spores. If spores travel through the air and land in an ideal location, they can grow into a lichen. Lichens reproduce asexually by producing small structures that have all of the lichen components and can be dispersed by wind, water, rain, or creatures like squirrels transporting them. These structures can grow directly into a lichen. Some lichens only reproduce sexually, some lichens only reproduce asexually, and some lichens reproduce sexually and asexually.

• How do lichens reproduce? 

• How do lichens carry out sexual reproduction? What is sexual reproduction? 
• How do lichens carry out asexual reproduction? What is asexual reproduction? 

Students could:

• Work in two groups where one half of the class researches how asexual reproduction may occur in general and it’s results (identical genetic information vs genetic variation in offspring). The other half of the class researches how sexual reproduction may occur in general and its results. The two halves teach a partner about the mode of reproduction they researched.
• Compare and contrast sexual and asexual reproduction using a T-chart.
• Discuss the pros and cons of sexual and asexual reproduction and why they both persist.
• Produce a claim that sexual reproduction results in more genetic variation and support their claim with evidence and scientific reasoning.

• LiveScience | What Are Lichens?:  LiveScience explains that lichens are a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and an alga. Structure, Appearance, counter-examples, and importance are also discussed.
• Iowa State University | Lichens: This article includes a description of lichens, how they grow, and uses.
• Australian National Herbarium | Reproduction and Dispersal of Lichens: This article features the reproduction and dispersal methods of lichens. 
• BBC | Science Focus Magazine: How Does a Lichen Reproduce?:  This is a succinct explanation of asexual and sexual reproduction in lichens.
• Learn.Genetics: Sexual vs. Asexual Reproduction: This simulation allows students to explore whether particular organisms reproduce by sexual or asexual reproduction.
• Learn.Genetic | The Basics and Beyond: An Introduction to Heredity: In this lesson plan, student pairs explore the reproductive strategies of twelve organisms, generate a list of characteristics of their reproductive strategies, and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of sexual and asexual reproduction.
• PBS LearningMedia: Iowa Land and Sky: Iowa Plant and Animal Reproduction Strategies Storyline: This lesson plan features an introduction to sexual and asexual reproduction. Students will discover that single-celled organisms reproduce through asexual reproduction and plants produce sexually. Students will discuss the pros and cons of sexual and asexual reproduction.