Identifying Lichens
National Park Ranger Shaun Hackett shares six species of bushy (fruticose) lichen that are, with a little practice, easily identifiable.
These type of lichen are more susceptible to air pollution and are used as bio-indicators of air quality across the world. Lichens take their nutrients only from the atmosphere and many (though not all) are highly sensitive to airborne pollutants.
The species featured should be looked for on trees and old wooden structures. Look for examples the size of a golf ball as these will show their identifiable features more readily. Finding any of the six types is a good sign of good air quality; finding five / six would be excellent. Happy Hunting!