The diverse  assemblege of symbiotic fungi and algae known as lichens reveals itself through these pages for the purpose of promoting a broader understanding and appreciation of this other major lineage of terrestrial photosynthetic organisms.   Lichens inhabiting a wide spectrum of habitats in the Pacific Northwest are photodocumented and their salient field characters are briefly described.   This site is intended to facilitate learning the lichen flora in the region through the use of macro- and photomicrography of features that can be visualized in the field with a hand lens.   Notes on laboratory procedures and microscopic details are also included where helpful.

Lichens can be learned fairly quickly with the assistance of this web-based visual guide that goes beyond the printed-medium limitations on visual information by providing multiple images, including details of diagnostic features as well as habit illustration.  Visual information and descriptions on this site, when used in conjuction with printed guides to the lichen flora, will hopefully accelerate learning these beautiful and rugged creatures.

This site is intended primarily for students in Bi 442/542, Bryophytes and Lichens, but anyone interested in learning the lichen flora will find it helpful.  Basic knowledge of lichens is assumed.  Species pages, linked below, are added periodically.  While the goal is to eventually fully illustrate all of the lichens known or expected to occur in the Pacific Northwest, this site will grow (much like a lichen) rather than be born all at once.  Suggestions and contributions of photos or descriptions are welcome.

Pacific Northwest Lichens:

     Initial installments Forthcoming Fall 2002 . . .
 

Other Lichen Sites and Resources:
 

Northwest Lichenologists

Macrolichens of the Pacific Northwest

California Lichen Society

Checklist of Lichen-forming Fungi of the Continental U.S. and Canada

Lichens of North America

Key to Lichens Genera in the Pacific Northwest

Key to Crustose Lichens of California

Lichens of British Columbia: Foliose and Squamulose Species

Lichens of British Columbia: Fruticose Species

Listed Lichens West of the Cascade Crest

Alberta Natural Heritage Lichen Tracking List

Rare Lichens of Canada: Bibliography

Parmeliaceae: A Searchable Database of Names, Smithsonian Institute

Lichen Identification Guide

Lichen Literature