The mighty lichen

Did you know that lichens are a key component of many ecosystems? Yet they are hardly noticed. They can be found on rocks, trees and soil. Most likely on anything that doesn’t move for long periods of time, such as the side of a barn. Lichens don’t call just forests their home — they are everywhere. In fact, according to the National Park Service, there are 3,600 different species of lichens in North America.

I suppose it might surprise you to know that lichens photosynthesize just like any other plant. Yet they are not considered a plant. They are, however, a living organism. A lichen is a combination of fungus and algae.  

Lichen provides many benefits. Here are a few, according to the National Park Service:

— They serve as a food source for many animals, such as deer, birds and rodents.

— They serve as habitat for many animals.

— They provide nesting materials for birds.

— They protect trees and rocks from extreme elements, such as rain, wind and snow.

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