Have you ever heard of lichen? It might not be as famous as elephants, sharks, or giant redwood trees, but it’s one of the coolest things you can find on your next walk in the woods or even in your backyard!
Lichen is a tiny living thing, or organism, that grows outdoors. It usually attaches itself to rocks, trees, and soil. This small but colorful organism loves moist areas, which is why you can find it where water runs down rocks, on the bark of damp trees, and on wet ground.
Here’s a surprise: lichen is actually two different organisms living together to help each other out. It’s a combination of a fungus and an algae. You might have seen fungus as the fuzzy green mold on old bread or as mushrooms. Algae, on the other hand, can be found in fish tanks or ponds.
In lichen, the fungus and algae work together in a relationship called symbiosis. This means they help each other survive, and both get something out of it. The fungus provides the shape and structure, while the algae makes food using sunlight through a process called photosynthesis.
Once you learn how to spot it, lichen can be easy to find in all sorts of places. It can be blue, green, red, yellow, or even orange! The color depends on the type of fungus and algae working together. There are three main types of lichen to look for:
Lichen is very diverse and delicate. It grows extremely slowly, so try not to step on it if you see some while hiking. Despite its small size, lichen is an important part of nature. It provides a home for little critters like spiders and small insects.
Here’s a fun fact: lichen usually grows where the air is fresh and clean. That’s why you can find it in natural areas like forests and around lakes, but not near highways or in the city.
So, if you’re out on a walk with your friends or family and see a little sprig of lichen on a tree or a rock, take a deep breath of fresh air! Ahhh.
Thanks for learning about lichen with us. See you next time!
Lichen Hunt: Next time you go for a walk in your neighborhood or a park, try to find different types of lichen. Look on rocks, tree trunks, and even on the ground. Can you spot the leafy, teacup, or crust lichen? Draw a picture of each type you find and note the colors you see. Share your drawings with your friends or family and see if they can find more lichen with you!
Symbiosis Role Play: With a friend or family member, act out the relationship between the fungus and algae in lichen. One person can be the fungus, providing structure and protection, while the other is the algae, making food through photosynthesis. Think about how you can help each other, just like the real lichen does. What would happen if one of you stopped helping?
Air Quality Detective: Lichen grows best where the air is clean. Become an air quality detective by observing where you find lichen. Is it more common in parks or near busy roads? Discuss why you think lichen prefers certain areas. You can even make a simple map of your findings to show where the air might be cleaner in your area.
