Lichens on Trees

Have you ever taken a closer look at the wide range of lichens that grow on the trunks, branches and twigs of trees, and wanted to learn more about what these lichens actually are and why they have chosen to grow on trees? If so, the course Lichens on Trees might be for you. In this course you will get an introduction to the lichen symbiosis, how lichen function, and how they relate to the trees they grow on. You will learn why different tree species attract different lichen species, and how they reproduce and seek new spaces to grow on. And once you have developed a better understanding of the physiology and ecology of lichens, we will use this to better understand the responses of lichens to air pollution and climate change.

The self-paced distance learning course Lichens on Trees aims to help participants take notice of lichens on trees and interpret their observations. Through fieldwork and guided reflection, participants will learn to recognise some of the common and easily recognisable lichen species where they live and explore what story these species tell us about their relation to the tree and the wider environment. The course consists of five sections, each rounded off with tutor feedback to course work activities. As such, the course Lichens on Trees is suitable for beginners.