Fungus provides UV protection: lichens

1 of 2 Lichens in the sunshine / Torrey Ritte.. / License

The algal element of lichens is protected from UV radiation by a fungal skin.

Biomimicry Taxonomy

	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from abiotic factors >
	Light

Biomimetic Application Ideas

Tents and other textiles that resist UV degradation Biological sunscreens Protective coatings for airplanes, building materials, etc.

> Visit strategy page

[Collapse all sections] Summary

"Others [lichens] develop minuscule branches and grow into dense curling thickets a few inches high. Their outer skin is formed by the compacted threads of the fungi and is sufficiently impermeable to prevent the loss of water from the partnership; beneath are the algal cells, kept moist and protected from harmful ultra-violet radiation by the fungal skin; and below them, in the centre of the structure, there is looser tissue, also provided by the fungus, where food and water is stored." (Attenborough 1995:216)

About the inspiring organism

Fungi
Fungi

Organism/taxonomy data provided by:
Species 2000 & ITIS Catalogue of Life: 2008 Annual Checklist

Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: Tents and other textiles that resist UV degradation, biological sunscreens, protective coatings for airplanes, building materials, etc.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Textiles, cosmetics, materials science

References

Attenborough, D. 1995. The Private Life of Plants: A Natural History of Plant Behavior. London: BBC Books. 320 p.

Fungus provides UV protection: lichens

Content tools

Curator of this page

Comments