Discovering Lung Lichen: A Fascinating Native Species in Your Backyard
Have you ever noticed those leafy, crusty patches growing on tree bark and wondered what they were? You might have been looking at lung lichen, scientifically known as Lobaria tenuis. This fascinating organism is actually not a plant at all, but rather a lichen – a unique partnership between fungi and algae that creates something entirely different from either partner alone.
What Exactly Is Lung Lichen?
Lung lichen gets its common name from its somewhat lung-like appearance, with its leafy, lobed structure that can remind observers of respiratory tissue. This native North American lichen forms what scientists call foliose thalli – basically, leaf-like structures that are grayish-green to brownish in color. You might also see it referred to by its synonym, Lobraia lobulifera.
Unlike true plants, lichens don’t have roots, stems, or leaves in the traditional sense. Instead, they’re composite organisms made up of fungi living in partnership with photosynthetic partners like algae or cyanobacteria. It’s nature’s ultimate roommate situation – the fungi provide structure and protection, while the algae provide food through photosynthesis.
Where You’ll Find Lung Lichen
As a native species to North America, lung lichen can be found growing naturally on the bark of both deciduous and coniferous trees throughout temperate and boreal regions of the continent. You’re most likely to spot it in areas with clean air, as lichens are notoriously sensitive to air pollution.
Is Lung Lichen Beneficial to Your Garden?
While you can’t exactly plant lung lichen in your garden like you would a flower or shrub, its presence is actually a wonderful sign! Here’s why lung lichen can be considered beneficial:
- Air quality indicator: The presence of lichens like lung lichen indicates good air quality in your area
- Ecosystem health: Lichens contribute to biodiversity and serve as food sources for various wildlife
- Natural beauty: They add interesting textures and colors to tree bark, creating natural artwork in your landscape
- No harm to trees: Lichens are epiphytes, meaning they simply use trees as a surface to grow on without harming them
How to Identify Lung Lichen
Spotting lung lichen is easier once you know what to look for:
- Location: Growing on tree bark, particularly on the north side of trees or in shadier spots
- Appearance: Leafy, lobed structures that are grayish-green to brownish in color
- Texture: Somewhat papery or leathery feeling, with distinct lobes that may overlap
- Size: Individual thalli can range from small patches to larger colonies several inches across
Supporting Lichens in Your Landscape
While you can’t plant lung lichen, you can certainly encourage its presence:
- Maintain air quality: Avoid using chemical sprays near trees and support clean air initiatives in your community
- Preserve existing habitat: If you notice lichens on your trees, avoid scraping or removing them
- Plant native trees: Providing more native tree species gives lichens more potential homes
- Reduce light pollution: Some lichens prefer shadier conditions, so minimizing excessive artificial lighting can help
The Bottom Line
Lung lichen might not be something you can add to your shopping cart at the garden center, but its presence in your landscape is something to celebrate. These remarkable organisms serve as living indicators of environmental health and add a subtle, natural beauty to the trees in your yard. Next time you’re out for a walk, take a moment to appreciate these fascinating partnerships between fungi and algae – they’re truly one of nature’s most successful collaborations!
Remember, if you’re seeing lichens like lung lichen thriving in your area, it’s a good sign that you’re doing something right in terms of maintaining a healthy, clean environment for all the living things that call your landscape home.
