ABSTRACT
Lichens Introduction Lichens are a fascinating group of organisms that mostly go unnoticed by the majority of people. From a photographer’s perspective, they are colourful, diverse and more attractive as close-up subjects now than in the past. ey are an important part of the natural world, and their role in everyday life is not appreciated or understood. ere are approximately 20,000 species that have been described worldwide. ey occupy some of the most inhospitable habitats on the planet, and can survive the intense cold in high, altitude regions, while in contrast endure extreme heat in many of the hottest climates. ey are often referred to as the pioneers of the botanical kingdom, being one of the rst species to inhabit some of the most extreme regions of the world where little else grows.
