Ecology

Lichens are foundational organisms in many ecosystems:

Substrate Colonizers

• First to colonize bare rock, bark, or soil
• Contribute to rock weathering and soil formation

Air Quality Indicators

• Sensitive to sulfur dioxide and pollutants
• Species diversity often correlates with clean air

Habitat Providers

• Microhabitats for mites, spiders, insect larvae
• Nesting material for birds

Seasonal Activity

• Photosynthesis increases during cool, moist periods
• Many remain active under snow when moisture is high

Bark Chemistry Preference

• Some prefer acidic bark (oak, maple)
• Others thrive on alkaline or nutrient-rich bark (ash, elm)

Lichens illustrate how fungi, algae, and the environment weave together into long-lived, resilient partnerships.