Collembola help lichens in competition with algae

Abstract

Collembola are terrestrial arthropods that prefer humid environments, probably because their relatively thin chitinous carapace is vulnerable to dehydration. They feed primarily on algae, but certain Collembola may feed on lichens (Leinaas & Somme 1984). They are often found in lichen samples, but the lichens involved do not generally appear to be damaged. Microclimatic conditions within lichens may favour occupation by Collembola as the humidity in the interior of foliose lichen thalli may be relatively high compared to that of the surroundings (Prinzig & Wirtz 1997).