Algal-fungal symbiotic relationships are widespread in nature and promote the evolution of both partners. The best-known example of such symbiosis is lichen, a mutualistic association of a mycobiont and a photobiont. Long-term interactions may lead to the formation of new cooperative molecular mechanisms or changes in the genetics of the symbionts. Symbiosis establishment includes the fine-tuning of partner metabolism by transcriptional regulators. GATA family transcription factors have proven to be key regulators of carbon and nitrogen metabolism, response to light and various environmental signals. Analysis of GATA factors across the green and fungal lineages allowed us to characterize the unique structural features and sequence patterns in most of algal GATA transcription factors. We hypothesize that the described features may have ensured a high prevalence of a lichen-forming ability specifically in the Chlorophyta division. The obtained results emphasize the evolutionary role and adaptive significance of GATA family transcription factors in different taxonomic and ecological groups of organisms. Keywords: GATA factors · Symbiosis · Lichen · Fungi · Algae · Evolution.