Once classified as single organisms, lichens are extraordinary life forms that are composites of fungus and algae or cyanobacteria.

Lichens have many colors and forms, but their plant-like entities are not plants.

They can be found in many environmental conditions, from sea level to high alpine mountains. A study by Gadd estimated that 6 percent of Earth's land surface is covered by lichens.

Because they are abundant and can grow on almost any surface, lichens are a year-round food source for snub-nosed monkeys.

(Video filmed by Yang Yang, edited by Xing Fangyu.)

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