What can lichens tell us about air quality?

Answer 1

Although lichens had been recognized as organisms for quite some time, it was not until 1867, when Swiss botanist Simon Schwendener proposed his dual theory of lichens, that the true nature of the lichen association began to emerge.[13] Schwendener's hypothesis, which at the time lacked experimental evidence, arose from his extensive analysis of the anatomy and development in lichens, algae, and fungi using a light microscope. Many of the leading lichenologists at the time, such as James Crombie and Nylander, rejected Schwendener's hypothesis because the common consensus was that all living organisms were autonomous.[13] Other prominent biologists, such as Heinrich Anton de Bary, Albert Bernhard Frank, Melchior Treub and Hermann Hellriegel were not so quick to reject Schwendener's ideas and the concept soon spread into other areas of study, such as microbial, plant, animal and human pathogens.[13][14] When the complex relationships between pathogenic microorganisms and their hosts were finally identified-refuting the idea of holistic organisms-Schwendener's hypothesis began to gain popularity. Further experimental proof of the dual nature of lichens was obtained when Eugen Thomas published his results in 1939 on the first successful re-synthesis experiment.[13]

Answer 2

Lichen are widely used as biological indicators of air pollution as they are extremely sensitive to pollutants in the air. A visual observation of the changes in amounts of the lichen gives an adequate benchmark.

Answer 3

The hardy lichens are useful bioindicators for air pollution, espeially sulfur dioxide pollution, since they derive their water and essential nutrients mainly from the atmosphere rather than from the soil. It also helps that they are able to react to air pollutants all year round. Compared with most physical/chemical monitors, they are inexpensive to use in evaluating air pollution.

Answer 4

The presence or absence of lichens is a good measure of air quality in an area.

Answer 5

Lichens cannot grow at all in very polluted conditions, therefore this indicates the level of pollution.

Answer 6

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