LICHENOLOGY

Lichens are very cool. They are actually not one organism, but consist of at least two symbiotic microorganisms that both benefit from a relationship that involves exchange of food and shelter. Usually lichens are composed of one type of photosynthetic algae and one fungus. Each lichen can have different species but there are some species that are most common in lichens in general. 

Lichens can be found almost anywhere - on trees, rocks, fence posts, houses, you name it. Since the energy and food they use comes from the sun, they usually grow anywhere there is sunlight. In order to distinguish between different types of lichens, I have found it helpful to use an app called Seek by iNaturalist. I have linked it here on this page. You can use it for all kids of organisms, including plants, mushrooms, birds, and insects. I find the best place to find a variety of lichens is a forest or somewhere there are lots of boulders or rocky surfaces.

Since lichens are made up of microorganisms, exploring lichens is another great way to hone your microscopy skills! Let's look at a few lichens under the microscope below.