1.
lichen; lichens
A group of organisms formed by a symbiotic partnership between fungi and algae. They grow as flat crusty or leafy patches on rocks, tree bark, and walls.
岩に地衣類が生えている。
Lichens are growing on the rock.
地衣類は空気の汚れに敏感だ。
Lichens are sensitive to air pollution.
木の幹を覆う地衣類は、菌類と藻類が共生したものだ。
The lichen covering the tree trunk is a symbiosis of fungi and algae.
Composed of 地衣 (lichen) + 類 (kind, group). Not a single species but a category of fungus-and-alga symbiotic organisms.
USAGE:
- 地衣類が生える: lichen grows
- 地衣類に覆われる: to be covered in lichen
NOTE:
Lichens are often used as an indicator of air quality, since they grow poorly in polluted areas. They are distinct from コケ (moss), which is a true plant.