Having a cortex or bark-like outer layer; relating to or resembling bark.
From Latin cortex (bark, rind) + -ous (adjective suffix). This botanical and anatomical term describes anything with a distinct outer covering similar to tree bark.
Lichens are fascinating examples of corticous organisms—that crusty outer layer you see isn't dead bark but a living community of fungi and algae working together in one of nature's oldest partnerships.
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