Lichen Care Guide

Lichen are often mistaken for plants. Actually they are a complex mutualistic symbiotic association between a fungal species and either an algae or cyanobacteria. Lichens are notable as pioneer species in the process of ecological succession and as residents of environments that few other organisms can tolerate. Although they seem to thrive under inhospitable conditions, lichens are highly susceptible to pollution and are often seen as natural indicators of air quality.