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A heteromerous thallus is a type of body structure found in lichens, which are symbiotic organisms composed of algae or cyanobacteria and fungi. In a heteromerous thallus, the fungal cells are predominant and organized into distinct layers, with the algal cells located in a specific layer between fungal layers. This contrasts with a homoeomerous thallus, where algal cells are scattered throughout the fungal tissue.1234

Lichens, with their heteromerous or homoeomerous thalli, are found worldwide and can colonize various surfaces like rocks and tree bark. They play a vital role in ecosystems, providing food for animals like caribou and reindeer, and have been used by humans for food, medicine, and dyes.1

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