One reason lichens may live for hundreds of years is that
A) they reproduce by spores.
B) they are completely independent of photosynthesis for their nutrition.
C) they have in their thalli gelatinous substances that aid in resisting drying.
D) they are able to parasitize trees and other plants.
E) they occur in a wide variety of forms.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Lichens can live for hundreds of years partly because they have gelatinous substances in their thalli that help them resist drying out. This adaptation allows them to survive in harsh, dry environments where other organisms might not survive as long.

One Reason Lichens May Live for Hundreds of Years Is