| Lichens are organisms that are comprised of a symbiotic relationship with fungi and cyanobacteria. Originating over 600 million years ago, lichens have been found to contribute to the chemical weathering of rocks and minerals and the monitoring of pollution levels. They constitute as a main food source for some animal and insect species. The goal of this is to determine the presence and abundance of diatoms, chrysophytes, testate amoebae, and other potential undescribed symbionts associated with lichens. The objective of this study was to examine two questions: first, what is the prevalence of diatoms, chrysophytes, and testate amoebae associated with lichens in Great Falls and Chesapeake & Ohio National Historical Park and Rock Creek Park and second, are there any potential new symbionts in lichens? To examine these questions, a total of 53 lichen samples found on rock and bark were collected from the Great Falls and Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park and from Rock Creek Park. The collected samples were examined and symbionts were identified by using an optical microscope. Corythion dubium and Ochromonas crenata were found in the lichen samples. This discovery suggests that chrysophytes and testate amoebae, not previously noted, are found in lichens. This work increases our understanding about lichen symbiosis and how it may contribute to the environment. |
