My New Discovery Of Lichens:
I made the new discovery of lichens while out looking for wildlife. It’s not easy to find and see wildlife each time you set out in nature. But, I must say there is always something interesting to see.
Of course lichens have been around for a very long time. But I think they go unnoticed by most people.
While I did not see the bird or the animal I had wanted to see, my attention was drawn to the bark of a tree which was covered in lichens.
Taking A Closer Look At Lichens:
After returning home, with not an image of wildlife, I began to take a closer look at the images on the tree bark that I had taken. What I would see was very interesting images within the image. It was like a beautiful miniature world, mostly going unnoticed. My curiosity grew as to what lichens really were, and if they really served a purpose.
Discovering What Are Lichens:
What I did find, is that lichens are very important to the environment. They have no roots, but grow on the surface of rocks and tombstones. And they also grow on the bark of trees and any rotting wood. A lichen is neither a fungus or alga, but is made up of both those organisms. They are said to be very complex organisms, and no two of them are alike.
Lichens are bioindicators for the ecosystem, and so they are very important to the environment. They are very sensitive to pollution. So if you happen to be in a place where they are lots of lichens, its a good indication that you are breathing clean air.
Benefits Of Lichens:
Apart from looking like nature’s natural art, lichens have many benefits. They come in many colours, and some cultures will use them to dye yarn. They also have medicinal properties and have been use as antibiotics. And just recently I realized insects use them as shelter and to feed on.
While lichens may benefit you in helping you to breathe easier, you know where your ultimate breath comes from.
Scripture:
Thus says God the Lord,
Who created the heavens and stretched them out,
Who spread forth the earth and that which comes from it,
Who gives breath to the people on it,
And spirit to those who walk on it: Isaiah 42:5
The above photo is a thumbnail. I see the image of an old woman. To view it as a high quality and digital download, you may click on the following link.
https://naturenurturedphotography.com
Very informative post. You opened my eyes to another world in nature. Thank you