Mineral Uptake and Release by Lichens: An Overview

Background and enhanced levels of elements in lichens are reviewed, and the Fe/Ti content ratio is shown to reflect the presence of trapped particulates. The following uptake and release mechanisms are critically examined: extracellular ion-exchange processes, extracellular electrolyte sorption, par...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:The Bryologist 1978-01, Vol.81 (2), p.226-246
Main Authors: Nieboer, E., Richardson, D. H. S., Tomassini, F. D.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Electrolytes
Ions
Lichenology
Lichens
Materials
Metal ions
Minerals
Particulate matter
Smelters
Thallus
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Summary:Background and enhanced levels of elements in lichens are reviewed, and the Fe/Ti content ratio is shown to reflect the presence of trapped particulates. The following uptake and release mechanisms are critically examined: extracellular ion-exchange processes, extracellular electrolyte sorption, particulate trapping and subsequent solubilization, metal hydrolysis, intracellular uptake and release and the rewetting and 'resaturation respiration' phases. A brief survey of the nutritional requirements and nutritive value of lichens is also provided. Finally, it is concluded, after an examination of the mineral sources available to lichens and of mineral translocation and turnover rates in lichen thalli and mats, that lichen morphology and physiology favor their participation in mineral cycling.
ISSN:0007-2745
1938-4378
DOI:10.2307/3242185