Today I attended the November meeting of the Suffolk Naturalists’ Society , where I had the privilege of delivering a brief talk introducing members to the fascinating world of lichens. Many thanks to the SNS for the invitation to speak!
First steps on the path to enlichenment
A brief introduction to the curious beauty and ecological significance of lichens, including some common Suffolk species, and a warning against losing sight of this vital but neglected part of Suffolk biodiversity.
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Anthony is the field lichenologist behind Aspen Ecology. A committed naturalist, educator and communicator, he is a knowledgeable guide and responsive advisor on the remarkable world of lichens.
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These websites include valuable online libraries of lichen images, species descriptions or both:
LICHEN ETHICS AND SAFETY
The field notes and lab notes for various lichen species on this website refer to special field-lichenological techniques. Examples include collecting lichens in the field, testing lichens with chemicals and ultraviolet light, and dissecting lichens with razors or other sharp tools.
These and other field-lichenological techniques require special knowledge and experience. They also demand an ethics of respect for lichens and other wildlife, for conservationally significant species and sites, and for land and landowners.
You should not attempt any of these techniques if you lack the necessary knowledge, experience or ethical sense. You should also take all relevant safety precautions. More information about field-lichenological safety and ethics is available from the British Lichen Society .