Lichens
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Lichens are a symbiotic partnership of a fungus and an alga.
There are approximately 3,600 species of lichens in North America.
Lichens are found in a vast diversity of habitats and climates,…
…from the Sonoran desert on the Coronado National Forest,…
…to the temperate rain forest of Alaska on the Chugach and Tongass National Forests,…
…and in the tropical rainforests of the El Yunque National Forest in Puerto Rico.
Welcome to the world of lichens on our national forests and grasslands!
Learn About Lichens
Lichens are interesting organisms. They are diverse, adaptable, functional, and little understood. They play an important role in our natural ecosystems and can let us know when those ecosystems are in trouble. Lichens are beautiful, especially when you view a lichen-drenched Douglas-fir or a colorful crust-covered cliff, and up close when viewed under a hand-lens or microscope.
About Lichens
Learn to recognize lichens, the difference between lichens and other plants, and why lichens are important
Lichen Biology
Learn about lichen structure, growth forms, and reproduction
Lichen Habitat
What are lichens' growth requirements?
Identification
Find out about collecting and identifying lichens
Did You Know?
Fun facts about lichens and their use
Photo Gallery
Explore the forms and variety of lichens
Lichen Glossary
Find definitions of lichen-related terms
Lichen Resources
Links, books, and guides about lichens