The Hidden Strength of Lichen's Dark Secret

Lichens are tough and can handle harsh conditions. They make melanin, a pigment that helps them survive in tough spots. This pigment is like a shield, protecting them from too much light and UV rays. One type of lichen, Lobaria pulmonaria, has been studied for its melanin. It turns out, this lichen has special granules of melanin in its upper layer. Scientists used special tools to see and study these melanin particles. They found out that these particles are big, round blobs. These blobs stick together and are not very stable. They also stick to other things easily. When scientists cleaned these particles, they found that they were mixed with sugars. The cleaned particles were smaller and more stable. They also didn't stick as much. In water, these particles form groups. The cleaned ones form tighter groups than the uncleaned ones. This shows that the sugars help the melanin particles spread out. The melanin particles can change shape and size. This helps the lichen handle stress better. The melanin might also help the lichen's walls stay strong. This makes the lichen more resistant to harsh conditions. Lichens are amazing because they can live in places where other plants can't. They have special ways to protect themselves. The melanin in Lobaria pulmonaria is one of these ways. It helps the lichen survive in bright, harsh places. This shows how clever nature can be. It finds ways to help living things survive, even in tough spots.