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GROUPS OF LICHENS

CRUSTOSE LICHENS (crusty) adhere closely to the bark at all points under the thallus. Removal from the substrata will cause extensive damage. These lichens can survive in harsher environments than the other groups.

FOLIOSE LICHENS (leafy) adhere to the substrata at several points under the thallus while the edges of the thallus generally turn upward. The can be removed without damaging the thallus if care is taken. This is the most abundant group found in trees. Many can be found on the trunk as well as on the limbs.

FRUTICOSE LICHENS (stalked, shrubby, or hair-like) attach to the bark at only one point. They resemble trees or bushes with all but the attached portion away from the bark. Removal from the substrata can easily be done. These lichens prefer a habitat with much light and occur on terminal areas of limbs or on other well-lit areas.