Usually comprised of a fungal component and algae of some kind, lichen are able to both decompose organic matter like fungi but also obtain energy from photosynthesis. It's a very close relationship that evolved over millions of years.
You may usually have to look closely to find them, but they're everywhere. Whether living or dead, lichen often prefer the bark of trees as their place of habitation. Wood absorbs moisture well and keeps the lichen hydrated.
Often lichen and moss grow together, usually a couple or more species at a time. They have one important thing in common: lichens and mosses have no vascular system - no roots and stem to draw up water. Since they absorb water from the environment alone, you can find these growing in predominantly moist places.
Lichen and mosses are one of my personal favourite subjects to photograph - it's almost as if a tiny world reveals itself when viewed up close.
Tiny mushrooms, the reproductive structure of fungi, can be seen sprouting from this log. To a small ant though, these could seem as tall as trees are to us...
Some lichen have a leafy-like appearance, these are called foliose lichen. Others seem to form crusty scales, and these are referred to as crustose lichen. There are also fruticose lichen which have a shrubby like appearance, but those tend to grow in more northern areas.
Although taxonomically complex and difficult to identify, lichens are full of natural beauty. Lichen grows extremely slowly, but after a long enough time anything can accumulate a layer of these colourful organisms. They can be found any time of the year, but after a rainfall is best for the vibrant colours it unleashes. Next time you're out in the woods with your camera, why not go on a lichen hunt yourself? You may find some sense of wonder in their tiny world.
Note: All photos are hereby declared CC0 (public domain) free to re-use for any purpose by the community.
