When you think of a tree perhaps you think of bark, the trunk, branches and leaves. There is a lot more to it though. Trees provide a home for mosses, algae, fungi, lychen and vines of various types as well.
I find that these growths add beauty, character and interest to the tree but are they harmful, helpful or neutral?
Symbiotic, Parasitic or Epiphytic?
Symbiotic: Denoting a mutually beneficial relationship. An example would be lichen growing on trees. It is a result of a symbiotic relationship between algae and fungi. The fungus provides a place for water and nutrients to collect that the algae takes advantage of; the algae instead uses its chlorophyll to produce food for both itself and the fungus.
Parasitic: Parasitic fungi for example attack living trees, penetrate their outer defenses, invade them, and get nourishment from them. This causes disease and sometimes death of the host. Not all fungi are parasitic.
Epiphytic: An epiphytic organism grows on the surface but gets its moisture and nutrients from air, rain and debris that accumulates around it. Spanish moss would be an example of an epiphyte in that it grows on the host tree but is self sustaining.
Here is My Tree Tuesday Photo "Bearded Maturity"!
I love the details of the other vegetation growing on this tree but I lack the expertise to determine whether they are Symbiotic, Parasitic or Epiphytic. Do you know?
What About You?
- Do you like the look of these growths on trees?
- Do you think that the ones in my photo are harmful, helpful or neutral?
Thanks for following me on my blockchain travels and I look forward to sharing my adventures with you.
Until next time,
@kus-knee (The Old Dog)
