Lichens cover approximately 8% of the earth’s terrestrial surface. Alpine, tundra, and dune environments have a lot of lichens! They also grow on many, many surfaces. The role of lichens in the environment includes thermoregulation, carbon cycling, the nitrogen cycle, water capture and water balance. They also provide habitat and a food source for all sorts of creatures.
Part 5 of an 8 part series available at: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLULUH7ENikDomnw8-mXBdaTJrOUWd10p4
For a list of public workshops, see: http://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/workshops/
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