EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -Lichen hyphae dissolve rock by producing weak acids, depsides and depsidones, and by releasing carbonic acid, a byproduct of normal metabolism and a stronger acid. Carbonic acid dissolves calcium carbonate, a major constituent of limestone and the predominant cementing matrix of some types of sandstone.

Detailed explanation-2: -Lichens can function as both Producers and Decomposers.

Detailed explanation-3: -When lichens subsequently decompose, these nutrients become available to other forms of plant life, literally breaking down rock into its component minerals that are then available for nutrition. There are three main growth forms of lichen: Leaf-like, flattened growth (Foliose)

Detailed explanation-4: -Lichens contribute to soil production by breaking down rock, and they are early colonizers in soilless environments such as lava flows.