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basidiolichen

basidiolichen

9.9
A lichen that has a mushroom-type fungus rather than the usual fungus
  • noun
  • /bəˈsɪdiəˌlaɪkən/
  • Specialized
: basidiolíquenes
  • Unlike most lichens, a basidiolichen contains a basidiomycete fungus instead of an ascomycete.

Examples

  • Researchers discovered a new species of basidiolichen in the tropical rainforest.

  • The unique characteristics of basidiolichens make them important subjects in fungal taxonomy studies.

  • The basidiolichen thrives in damp environments.

  • Some basidiolichens can be found in tropical forests.

  • Researchers discovered a new species of basidiolichen in the tropical rainforest.

  • The unique characteristics of basidiolichen make it an important subject for studying biodiversity.

  • Unlike most lichens, a basidiolichen comprises a basidiomycete fungus that forms a distinct relationship with algae.

Surface Forms

basidiolichen singular

Morphology

basidiolichen = lichen (semi-transparent) = basidio + lichen

The relation to 'lichen' is clear, but 'basidio' is a technical combining form (referring to Basidiomycota) that is unlikely to be known to an average B1 learner.

Etymology

Basidiolichen begins with basidio-, from a Greek word meaning 'small base' or 'pedestal', and ends with lichen, the familiar name for the fungus-and-algae partnership. So a basidiolichen is a lichen that has a fungus with that 'base' structure, which helps you remember it is the kind of lichen made with a basidium-type fungus.