It was an absolute pleasure this past weekend to be able to introduce members of the Anglian Microscopy Group and the Suffolk Naturalists’ Society to the strange, beautiful and ecologically vital world of lichens, and to the basic techniques of lichen microscopy. I’m grateful to the AMG for the invitation to lead this ‘Lichens under the Microscope’ workshop, and especially to the SNS for funding it. It was a brilliant day!
After an introduction to lichens, we walked outside and collected some of the lichens all around, returning to the AMG ‘lab’ for some microscopic analysis. The workshop seems to have inspired many AMG members to look more closely at the secret world of lichens, and I was delighted to receive this wonderful testimonial from the AMG Chair:
Very many thanks for yesterday. I’ve had lots of feedback from folk who were there, all very positive and many saying it was the best meeting we have ever had.
I hope AMG members continue to investigate lichens in their future microscopy meetings!
Lichens under the Microscope
Lichens are neglected biodiversity. Despite their ecological significance, dazzling variety and strange beauty, they’re easily overlooked. But these tiny creatures contain secrets! And microscopes can help to reveal them.
Anyone can learn how to appreciate lichens using microscopes. Seeing a lichen under a stereomicroscope for the first time is like descending to the surface of a new planet. And examining lichen sections at high magnification puts the lichen symbiosis on show: a partnership between completely different organisms that’s unique on Earth.
This one-day workshop will introduce participants to lichens and lichen microscopy. After an overview of these compelling life-forms, we’ll go outside to collect samples, which we’ll then prepare for examination. No familiarity with lichens is presumed.
Participants should bring hand-lenses, as well as stereomicroscopes and compound microscopes if possible. Some microscopes will be available to borrow, and other materials and equipment will be provided.
Join us for a close-up look at the fascinating world of lichens. You’ll never see them in the same way again!
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.
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 .
