soredium
Quick Summary
A soredium is a reproductive unit of a lichen, consisting of one or more algal cells wrapped in fungal filaments. These structures are crucial for the asexual propagation of lichens, allowing them to spread to new environments. When conditions are suitable, a soredium can develop into a new lichen thallus. This method of reproduction is particularly important for lichens that cannot easily re-establish their symbiotic association through other means, such as the release of fungal spores alone. Soredia are distinct from sororia, which are spore-producing structures found in ferns and fungi.123
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