Perfect protection - melanins are particularly important for lichens

Low-Res_Bild1 Uneigentliche Stäbchenflechte_A.Beck_SNSB

Source: Andreas Beck, SNSB

Researchers have found evidence in the genome of a newly named lichen that an unusually large proportion of its polyketide synthases are likely responsible for the production of melanins, which protect lichens from excessive sunlight.

 Registered users, subscribers or members - SIGN IN

To continue reading this article

Membership

Included as a benefit

Members of Applied Microbiology International have unlimited access to The Microbiologist as a benefit of membership. Just sign in with your usual membership credentials.

I AM A MEMBER

Find out more about how to join.

 

Register

FREE

Want to read more before deciding on a subscription? It only takes a minute to sign up for a free account and you’ll get to enjoy more free content each month.

REGISTER

 

Subscribe

3.75 per month / £35 annually

Get unlimited access to The Microbiologist.

SUBSCRIBE