To begin, let's walk through a query together...

Finding a lichen...


Let's examine the lichen in this picture. First, we need a bigger copy of the picture so we can look at details.

Examining our lichen...

Several features are used to identify lichens, including body type, life form, lobules, and surface texture.
To identify our lichen, let's start by looking for lobules.

Lobules

Lobules are small outgrowths, usually from the edge or margin of the lichen. They are important for reproduction.
Does our lichen have lobules?
Yes? Good! Select yes on the pull-down list.

Surface Texture



Let's look at the lichen's surface next.
Lichens have many different textures on their upper and lower surfaces. Surfaces vary from:
- granular surface
- white, frost-like surface (called 'pruinose')
- ridged surface
- rough surface (called 'scabard')
- smooth surface
- veined surface
What kind of texture does our lichen's surface have?
Does the bottom surface look veined? Good! Select veined-bottom on the pull-down list.


Performing our query...

Let's see if the two features we've examined will be enough to identify our lichen. Ask the database by clicking on the RETRIEVE button.
This website is hosted by NACSE, located in the CH2M Hill Alumni Center at Oregon State University.
Questions and comments to Webmaster