Air Quality and Lichens - A Literature Review

By Jenifer Hutchinson, Debbie Maynard, and Linda Geiser USDA Forest Service, Pacific 

Northwest Region Air Resource Management Program

Updated 16-Dec-96

Table of Contents

 Introduction

 Major Pollutants

o Sulfur dioxide

o Fluoride

o Acid Rain

o Photochemical Toxin

o Metals

o

 Mechanisms of Accumulation

o Particulate Trapping

o Ion Exchange

o Accumulation of metals

 Physiological Responses to Pollution

o Lichens as pollution monitors

o Effects of pollution on Lichens

o Sulphur dioxide

o Effects of acid rain 

 Bark pH interactions

 Soil chemistry interactions

 Other substrate interactions

 Acid fog

 Sensitivity of lichens to sulfur dioxide vs. acid rain

 Nitrogen enriched acid rain

 Lichen structure and physiology

o Effects of fluorine

o Effects of photochemical toxins

o Effects of metals

 Methods of Study

o Methods using naturally occurring lichens 

 Distribution mapping

 Gradient studies

o Laboratory measurements 

 Elemental Analysis

 Measuring metals accumulated by lichens
 Physiological responses

 Transplants

 Photography

 Air quality monitoring studies using lichens in the Pacific Northwest

o West of the Cascade crest

o East of the Cascade crest

 Annotated bibliography

Introduction

Lichens are an integral and important component of Pacific Northwest ecosystems. They

contribute to nutrient and hydrological cycles (Pike 1978, Harper and Marble 1988, Rychert and 

Skujins, 1974), biological diversity (McCune and Geiser 1997), and they are critical sources of 

forage, shelter and nesting material for many mammals, birds and invertebrates (Gerson and 

Seaward 1977, Richardson and Young, 1977, Hanley et al. 1989, Rochelle 1980, Maser et al. 

1981,1985 1986, Gunther et al. 1983). The largest biomass of forage and nitrogen-fixing lichens 

occurs in late-successional and old-growth forests with clean air quality (McCune 1993, Lessica 

et al. 1991, Neitlich and McCune 1995). Effects of deteriorating air quality on lichens and other 

sensitive, ecologically critical organisms is an important management concern on national forests 

and other public lands of the Pacific Northwest (Peterson et al. 1992, Rosentreter 1995, FEMAT 

1993, USDA-FS and USDI-BLM 1994a and 1994b). The following review describes some of the 

pollutants affecting lichens in the Pacific Northwest, mechanisms of pollutant accumulation by 

lichens, physiological responses to pollution, methods of study, and provides a summary of 

regional air quality studies within the Pacific Northwest utilizing lichens.

Major Pollutants

A variety of elements and chemical compounds affecting lichen growth and distribution are 

found in the atmosphere. Primary pollutants, including sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide 

(NO2) and fluoride (F) compounds, remain in the same chemical form after they are emitted into 

the atmosphere. Secondary pollutants result from chemical reactions involving primary

pollutants during atmospheric transport. This class of pollutants includes ozone (03), 

peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN), and acid rain components such as sulphuric (H2SO4) and nitric 

(HNO3) acids. Finally, a third, mixed category of 'air toxics' includes industrial organic 

compounds, agricultural pesticides, trace metals, and metalloids. Information on effects of 

compounds in this category on lichens is not extensive (Belnap, et al. 1993). The term "air 

pollution", as used in this text, designates a mixture of atmospheric smoke, mineral rich dust, 

sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur and nitrogen based acidifying compounds, fluorine, photooxidants such as ozone and PAN, and air toxics.

In general, the air quality in Oregon and Washington is very good compared to other areas of the 

United States. However, population is expected to grow from 8.1 to 9.4 million people within the

next 15 years, with concomitant stresses on the region's air resources. For an extensive 
description of current air quality status, emission trends and deposition measurements in the 

Pacific Northwest region of the U.S., see Eilers et al. (1994).

Sulfur dioxide

Sulfur dioxide is a by-product of coal or fuel oil combustion, ore reduction, paper manufacture, 

many industrial processes, and vehicle exhaust. Natural background concentration is 0.28 to 2.8 

mg/m3, but values near pollution sources can rise to as high as 200 mg/m3or more. Most lichens 

cannot survive extended periods of SO2 exposure above 60 mg/m3(Hale 1981). Sulfur emissions 

have declined dramatically in the last decade in the Pacific Northwest, attributable to the decline 

in natural emissions from Mt. St. Helens and the closure of the ASARCO copper smelter in 

Tacoma (Eilers et al. 1994). Total combined emissions of SO2 in 1993 for Oregon and 

Washington was 211,000 tons, about 15% of the national total.

Nitrogen oxide

The dominant anthropogenic sources of NO2 are fossil fuel combustion by stationary sources 

and vehicles. Although NOx thresholds for lichens have not been established, NOx and other 

nitrogenous compounds are components of acid rain and photooxidants. Effects of these 

pollutants on lichens are discussed in the acid rain section below.

Total combined emissions of NOx in 1993 for Oregon and Washington was 571,000 tons, about 

2% of the national total. Although NOx emissions in Oregon, outside of Portland, are expected to 

remain low, emissions in Washington are expected to begin increasing again within the next ten 

years as increases in vehicle use outstrips reductions achieved through emission controls (Eilers 

et al. 1994).

Fluorides

Fluorides are released into the atmosphere as by-products of aluminum, zinc and phosphate ore 

reduction, but can also occur in fly ash from coal-burning installations. Fluoride is a locally 

important pollutant around smelters, brickworks, glass making factories and fertilizer plants and 

are also released in large amounts by volcanic eruptions (Richardson 1992). Many lichens are 

sensitive to this pollutant as it can concentrate in hydrated lichens to more than 200 times 

ambient concentrations. In general, obvious damage to lichens begins at internal concentrations

between 30-70 ppm (Gilbert 1971, Perkins et al. 1980).

Acid Precipitation

Acid precipitation is rain or snow possessing a pH less than 5.6, the pH of pure water in 

equilibrium with atmospheric concentrations of CO2. Acid rain is produced by regional 

enrichment of air with SO2 and NO2 which subsequently oxidize to form sulphuric acid 

(H2SO4) and nitric acid (HNO3). The relative amounts of sulfuric and nitric acids vary in time 

and geographical location. Deposition actually takes a variety of forms, including dry, aqueous 

and gaseous deposits of sulfur and nitrogen based acids and oxidant pollutants, including 

ammonia and its derivatives (e.g. Table 1).
Table 1. Known atmospheric sulfates (Dobbins 1979).

Name Formula Sources Chemical Properties

Probable Size 

Class 

Diameter (D)

Sulfuric acid H2SO4

Atmospheric 

oxidation of SO2; 

direct from 

manufacturing

Strong acid; very

hygroscopic (drying 

agent at low relative 

humidity

0.1-1.0 μm

Acid ammonium 

sulfate NH4HSO4 Oxidation of SO2 with NH3 addition

Strong acid; 

hygroscopic 0.1-1.0 μm

Triammonium 

acid disulfate (NH4)3H(SO4)2 Oxidation of SO2 plus NH3

Acidic; liquefies at 

~65% relative 

humidity

0.1-1.0 μm

Ammonium 

sulfate (NH4)2SO4 Oxidation of SO2 plus NH3

Weak acid; watersoluble; liquefies at 

80% relative humidity

0.1-1.0 μm

Sodium sulfate Na2SO4 Paper pulping by kraft 

process

Water-soluble; 

liquefies at 84% RH; 

relatively inert

> 0.5 μm

Calcium sulfate CaSO4

Wind-blown dust; 

manufacture of 

gypsum products

Low solubility in 

water; relatively inert > 1 μm

Magnesium 

sulfate MgSO4 Sea spray; paper pulping

Very hygroscopic; 

relatively inert and 

nontoxic

> 1 μm

Long range transport processes distribute small particle size, acidifying pollutants to ecosystems 

far removed from pollution sources. Both dry and wet deposition are significant routes of acid 

input to forests in the western United States.

Dry deposition is an almost continuous removal of pollutants from the lower atmosphere at 

ground level. Acidifying compounds commonly deposited as dry deposition include sulfur 

dioxide (SO2), sulfuric acid (H2SO4), nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and nitric acid (HNO3). Dry

deposition of both nitrate and sulfate in the western U.S. are highest in the summer months 

(NAPAP 1990).

The relative amount of wet deposition declines seasonally and geographically with declines in 

precipitation. In the Pacific Northwest, most of the annual precipitation falls in the winter. 

Because storms generally move in from the Pacific, pH values are usually above 5. The greatest 

rainfall acidity probably occurs in the summer, during light summer rains after extended drought 

. Acid fog and rime ice (frost) are two important types of wet deposition as the ion load is many 

times the load in rain or snow (NAPAP 1990).
Overall annual acid input to forested ecosystems in the Pacific Northwest is relatively low 

compared to other parts of the nation (see figures 1 and 2; Eilers, et al., 1994). Although most 

western forest soils are well buffered (NAPAP 1990), wet and dry deposition can accumulate 

over time. The average concentrations of sulfur and nitrogen species in precipitation throughout 

the PNW are are not uniform. SO42-and H+ion concentrations in snow along the Cascades 

increase with increasing latitude suggesting that precipitation composition in the Washington 

Cascades may have been degraded relative to precipitation in the Oregon Cascades (see figures 3 

and 4; Eilers, et al., 1994). Poorly buffered alpine-subalpine systems are thought to be most 

sensitive, although the extent and magnitude of harmful effects in these systems is poorly

understood.

Figure 1. Precipitation-weighted concentrations of sulfate (SO4

2-

) ions (in mg/L) for the United 

States for 1992 (Source: NADP/NTN 1993). From Eilers, et al. (1994).

Figure 2. Precipitation-weighted concentrations of sulfate (NO3

-

) ions (in mg/L) for the United 

States for 1992 (Source: NADP/NTN 1993). From Eilers, et al. (1994).
Figure 3. Concentration of hydrogen ion (μeq/L) in snow versus latitude (degrees) for 1983 from 

the Oregon/California border (lat. 42°) to the Washington/Canada border (lat. 49°) as reported by 

Laird et al. (1986). The line is a cubic spline fit of the raw data. The rectangles represent samples 

collected within the national parks. From Eilers, et al. (1994).
Figure 4. Concentration of sulfate (μeq/L) in snow versus latitude (degrees) for 1983 from the 

Oregon/California border (lat. 42°) to the Washington/Canada border (lat. 49°) as reported by 

Laird et al. (1986). The line is a cubic spline fit of the raw data. The dashed line represents the 

cubic spline fit of nonmarine sulfate. The rectangles represent samples collected within the 

national parks. From Eilers, et al. (1994).
Photochemical Toxins

Photochemical toxins are generally associated with automobile exhaust in cities, and form from 

the burning of fossil fuels. In this group are ozone and peroxyacetylnitrate (PAN). Ozone is 

formed by the breakdown of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) to nitric oxide (NO) and the oxygen radical 

(O). The breakdown reaction is catalyzed by hydrocarbons (natural and anthropogenic) under 

high sunlight and temperature conditions. The oxygen radical combines with molecular oxygen 

(02) to form the highly reactive ozone molecule (O3). PAN is formed by further reaction of 

ozone with breakdown products of NO2. Photochemical thresholds for lichens is a controversial 

topic (see discussion below). In the Pacific Northwest, exposure of vegetation to elevated ozone 

concentrations occurs downwind of the major metropolitan areas of Seattle, Tacoma, Vancouver, 

and Portland (NAPAP 1990).

Ozone concentrations higher than 80 ppb occur in the Washington Cascades during the summer 

months. Federal lands on the western slopes of the Cascades at higher elevations in Washington 

are particularly vulnerable, with peak hourly ozone concentrations ranging from 90-196 ppb. 

Although significant effects on forest health have not yet been demonstrated in the Pacific 

Northwest, based on existing does response data, these ozone concentrations could pose a threat 

to forest vegetation in Washington (Eilers et al. 1994).
Böhm et al (1995) described ozone regimes in and near forests of the Western United States. The 

14 EPA calibrated and monitored sites in Oregon and Washington experienced small-urban, 

rural-remote, or remote ozone regimes:

Small-urban ozone regimes occurred in Seattle-Tacoma, Portland, Eugene, Medford and 

Salem. Even though Seattle-Tacoma and Portland are major metropolitan areas, ozone 

formation potential is lower in the Pacific Northwest (compared to California and east of 

the Cascades) due to cooler average temperatures, decreased solar radiation intensity and 

more cloudiness. Small-urban sites are dominated by urban/small curves, with a few 

incidences of urban/large and medium curves (See Figure 5). Ozone maxima occur 

during the summer.

Rural-remote regimes are dominated by remote curves (40-90%) with frequent inversion 

curves. Urban/transport, urban/small curves occur occasionally (<15%) and urban/large, 

urban/medium occur rarely (<5%). Pack Forest (south of Tacoma), Columbia County

(NW OR), and Clackamas County (NW OR) contained rural-remote sites. Sites may be 

impacted by ozone precursors originating in urban areas although inversion curves also 

represent downward mixing of ozone from the tropospheric reservoir. Ozone maxima 

occur during the spring and summer.

Remote regimes are dominated by remote curves and included Olympic National Park, 

Port Angeles in NW WA and Crook County in central eastern OR. High ozone 

concentrations typical of medium and large urban areas do not occur at these sites. 

Inversion and small urban curves may occur <15% of the time. Although ozone in the 

Olympic Peninsula has been traced to precursors form Portland and Seattle-Tacoma, 

overall these sites are the farthest removed from anthropogenic sources of ozone. Ozone

maxima occur in the spring.

Figure 5. Seventeen characteristic patterns of hourly ozone concentrations (ppb) identified by

Böhm et al. (1995), arranged by six categories: urban/large, urban/medium, urban/small, 

urban/transport, inversion, and remote. Hourly means with standard deviations are plotted. The 

patterns are labeled using letter and number combinations: the letter refers to the shape of the 

curve ('A' curves have little diurnal variation; 'E' curves are characterized by larger diurnal 

fluctuations in ozone), and the number relates to the relative magnitude of the 24-hour mean ('1' 

has the lowest mean). From Bohm, McCune, and Vandetta (1995). 
Part of the difficulty in establishing lichen sensitivity to ozone has been the difficulty in finding 

study areas where ozone concentrations are elevated at times of the day when lichens are 

metabolically active. Note that all the ozone curves in Figure 5 have maximum values between 

noon and 6 PM, typically the time of day when lichens are least likely to be active. Some factors 

which might theoretically increase the likely hood of ozone damage to lichens would be high 

elevation (lichens at cooler sites stay metabolically active longer into the day during the summer 

time because they don't dry out as fast), location of study site in an area subject to 

urban/transport ozone curves (broadens the length of time each day when ozone concentrations 

are elevated), and location of lichens in microhabitats which keep them moist longer (e.g. among 

mosses). Potential areas for study of lichen impacts from ozone in OR and WA would be the 

western WA Cascades, especially the NW slope of Mt. Rainier (see Brace 1996), and the 

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.

Metals

Lichens are supplied with mineral nutrients and heavy metals from precipitation, throughfall, 

dust, and the underlying substrate from both natural and anthropogenic sources. Natural sources 

of metals include marine aerosols, leachates from foliage and bark, and suspended particulates 

derived from local and remote soils and rock. Lichens show varying sensitivity to metals, are 

good accumulators, and have been used to indicate deposition levels. (See sections on metal 

accumulation and effects). Some anthropogenic sources for specific metals are listed below.
Lead (Pb). Pb is the most important heavy metal pollutant in the atmosphere . The main source 

of lead in cities is leaded gas; in rural areas or isolated industrial sites, the source is any process 

involving coal combustion or ore reduction.

Nickel (Ni). Ni is a by-product of coal combustion, industrial processes, and automobile exhaust. 

Background levels in the U.S. range from 3 to 9 ppm (Hale 1981).

Mercury (Hg). Hg is a minor component of air pollution in the Pacific Northwest from the 

burning of fossil fuels.

Chromium (Cr). Cr is a component of stack fly-ash and presumably travels long distances in the 

atmosphere; it's presence can be correlated with industrial centers.

Zinc (Zn). Zn is emitted from zinc smelters, and is also produced in automobile exhaust (Hale 

1981).

Titanium (Ti) and Vanadium (V). Ti and V are considered signature elements of petroleum 

combustion pollution; enhanced levels of these elements strongly indicate anthropogenic sources 

(Wetmore 1987b).

Mechanisms of Accumulation

Lichens accumulate substances from their environment by a variety of mechanisms, including 

particulate trapping, ion exchange, extracellular electrolyte sorption, hydrolysis, and intracellular 

uptake (Nieboer et al.1978).

Particulate Trapping

Particles of various elements, such as iron, titanium, aluminum, chromium, and uranium can 

become embedded in the lichen thallus in the algal and/or fungal layer under moist or dry

conditions (Nieboer et al. 1978, Gough & Erdman 1977). Morphological characteristics that 

contribute to particulate trapping include the microtopography of the lichen surface (Richardson 

& Nieboer, 1980), and a large surface area-to-volume ratio of the lichen, which can result from a 

thin thallus, branching, or projections from the thallus such as isidia and phyllocladia (Tomassini 

et al. 1976, Tomassini 1976).

Ion Exchange

Ion exchange requires that the lichen must be moist, so that the elements are in ionic form. 

Uptake of metal ions by ion exchange is passive and rapid and obeys the principals of mass and 

charge balance. Extracellular binding sites, such as at cell walls, are most likely involved.

Lichen species vary in their capacity for ion-uptake, as well as the particulate trapping efficiency

of their surface morphology. This underlines the importance of correct identification of lichen 

samples used for monitoring purposes and demonstrates the desirability of collecting the same 

species for analysis from all sampling sites.
Accumulation of metals

The action of rain, surface water, and passive upward diffusion from the substrate likely bring 

dissolved minerals in contact with lichen thalli (Nieboer et al. 1978, Nieboer & Richardson 

1981). The amount of each type of metal ion that can be accumulated by a lichen is dependent 

upon the uptake characteristics of that particular species and the amount and availability of metal 

ions in the surrounding environment. Extracellular uptake of metal ions is essentially a passive 

process of ion exchange determined by the character of the ligands in the fungal cell walls. 

Intracellular uptake is limited by the nature of the metal ion, cell membrane permeability, and the 

concentration of extracellular ligands with affinity for cations (Tyler 1989).

Lead. Lichens are very efficient accumulators of Pb, through aerosols, particulate metal fallout, 

or acid rain. Pb is bound to insoluble anionic sites, accumulated extracellularly, and concentrated 

in the medulla. Once bound, Pb is not easily removed by rain or wind. The toxic effects of Pb on 

lichens is minimal. Some species can accumulate up to about 2000 ppm, after which 

concentrations do not increase, indicating a degree of physiological turnover. Surveys of Pb 

content have proved useful in establishing background (preindustrial) values which can be 

referenced to present levels (Lawrey & Hale 1981).

Nickel. Ni is taken up by algal cells in lichens.

Mercury. Hg is readily accumulated by lichens. Background values were measured at approx. 

0.223 ppm, while specimens 8 km from a chlor-alkali plant contained 0.53 ppm (Lodenius, 

1981).

Chromium. Schutte (1977) reported Cr accumulation in lichens of Ohio increased two to ten-fold 

over turn of the century concentrations.

Copper. Nieboer et al. (1979) documented two phases of Cu uptake in Umbillicaria 

muhlenbergii. In the first phase copper ions bond to receptor sites on algal cells. In the second 

phase, copper ions bind to the fungal cells, as evidenced by K+efflux.

Zinc. Zn is found in fairly large concentrations (200-600 ppm) in lichens near zinc smelters.

Physiological Responses to Pollution

Lichens as pollution monitors

Lichens and bryophytes possess a number of characteristics that make them suitable biomonitors

for air pollution. Many lichen species have large geographical ranges, allowing study of 

pollution gradients over long distances. Lichen morphology does not vary with the seasons, and 

accumulation of pollutants can occur throughout the year. Lichens are usually very long lived.

Lichens are also suitable biomonitors due to their sensitivity to pollution. Several factors 

contribute to this sensitivity. Water and gas are exchanged over the entire lichen thallus. Because 

they lack roots, lichens do not have access to soil nutrient pools and must depend on deposition, 
water seeping over substrate surfaces, atmospheric and other comparatively dilute sources of 

nutrients. Thus, their tissue content largely reflects atmospheric sources of nutrients and 

contaminants. Lichens also lack the protective tissues or cell types necessary to maintain a 

constant internal water content. Many lichens pass through multiple wetting and drying cycles 

during a day. When hydrated, nutrients and contaminants are absorbed over the entire surface of 

the lichen. During dehydration, nutrients and many contaminants become greatly concentrated in 

the lichen tissues, i.e., absorbed to cell walls, cloistered inside organelles or crystallized between 

cells. Different contaminants have different release rates depending on the way they are stored. 

Nutrients tend to be more easily remobilized than metal contaminants. During heavy rains, 

nutrients and pollutants are gradually leached. A dynamic equilibrium thus exists between 

atmospheric nutrient/pollutant accumulation and loss, which makes lichen analysis a sensitive 

tool for the detection of changes in air quality. Cryptogams have consistently shown higher metal 

levels than higher plants (Rühling& Tyler 1968, Huckaby 1993, LeBlanc et al. 1974, Hocking et 

al. 1978, Solberg & Selmer-Olsen 1978, Arafat & Glooschenko 1982). In one study, lichen metal 

levels reflected the prevailing wind direction to a greater extent than did pine needles 

(Laaksovirta& Olkkonen 1977, 1979).

Different morphological types of lichens exhibit differing levels of sensitivity to pollution as a 

result of combined factors that are not well understood. In general sensitivity increases in the 

following series: crustose < foliose < fructicose.

Effects of Pollution on Lichens

A myriad of pollution effects on lichens have been described. At the level of the whole plant, 

investigators have described decreases in thallus size and fertility (DeWit 1983, Kauppi 1983, 

Sigal & Nash 1983), bleaching and convolution of the thallus (Sigal & Nash 1983), restriction of 

lichen occurrence to the base of vegetation (Sigal & Nash 1983, Neel 1988), and mortality of 

sensitive species (DeWit 1983, Denison & Carpenter 1973). Microscopic and molecular effects 

described include reduction in the number of algal cells in the thallus (Holopainen 1984), 

ultrastructural changes of the thallus (Anderson & St. Clair 1983, Hale 1983, Holopainen 1984, 

Pearson 1985), degradation of photosynthetic pigments (Kauppi 1980, Garty et al. 1993), altered 

photosynthesis and respiration rates (Sanz et al. 1992, Rosentreter & Ahmadjian 1977), and 

elevation in the content of heavy metals in the thallus (Addison & Puckett 1980, Carlberg et al. 

1983, Gailey & Lloyd 1986 a, 1986b and 1986c; Gough& Erdman 1977, Lawry 1986). Huebert 

et al. (1985) concluded that peak exposures may be of primary importance in determining the 

survival of lichens in industrial areas.

Sulphur dioxide

SO2 is considered to be the primary factor causing the death of lichens in most urban and 

industrial areas, with fruticose lichens being more susceptible to SO2 than many foliose and 

crustose species (Seaward 1987). The observed effects of SO2 include decreases in respiration 

and photosynthesis, increases in membrane permeability, increases in K+influx and ions lost, 

and ultrastructural changes (Belnap et al. 1993). Damage to the algal component of the thallus is 

evidenced by its discoloration. The entire thallus dies soon after algal cells are damaged (Hale 
1981, Wetmore 1985). Low pH increases the toxicity of SO2 action (Farmer et al. 1992)). 

Nieboer et al. (1979) determined that copper also enhances the effects of SO2.

There are three general mechanisms by which SO2 exerts it's toxic effects upon the lichen 

thallus. At low pollution levels, enzyme systems within the thallus may become activated. This 

can be observed as increases in glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity, or an increase in 

the levels of glutathione and total protein SH. Heightened enzyme activity can be used as a 

bioindicator for the non-visible injury metabolism and detoxification of absorbed SO2 (Rabe and 

Kreeb 1980, Miszalski& Zeigler, 1979, Grill et al. 1980). At higher levels, SO2 deactivates 

enzymes by chemical modification (sulfitolysis) leading to reduced metabolic activity and loss of 

membrane integrity (Zeigler 1975 and 1977, Nieboer et al. 1976). It also binds to the central 

metal atoms of enzymes, adversely affecting membrane function and cell osmolality (Malhotra 

and Khan 1980, Gunnison et al. 1981, Mansfield and Freer-Smith). In addition, SO2 

competitively inhibits carbonate (HCO3) and phosphate (H2PO4) interactions with enzymes 

(Alscher-Herman 1982).

Table 2. General Mechanisms of SO2 toxicity

Type of reaction Observed/expected response or 

injury References

Enzyme deactivation: 

(e.g. sulfitolysis)

-chemical modification

-binding to metal 

centers (Vit B12; Fe)

-inhibition

Reduced metabolic activity; loss of 

membrane integrity, membrane 

function and cell osmolality, 

(competition with HCO3-, H2PO4-)

Zeigler 1975, 1977, Nieboer et al. 

1976, Malhotra and Khan 

1980,Gunnison et al. 1981, 

Mansfield & Freer-Smith 1981, 

Alscher-Herman 1982

Stimulation of enzyme 

systems: (often in 

response to low 

pollution levels)

-Glucose-6-phosphatedehydrogenase,

-Increases in 

glutathione and total 

protein SH

Use of increases in enzyme activity

as a bioindicator for non-visible 

injury and detoxification of 

metabolism absorbed SO2

1979, 19 Rabe & Kreeb, 80, 

Miszalski & Zeigler, 1979, Grill 

et al. 1980

Reaction with reactive 

biomolecules:

-chemical (bisulfite 

adducts)

-redox (acts as electron 

acceptor/donor at pH 7)

Modification of metabolic precursors 

and products; interference with 

electron flow in photosynthetic and 

respiratory electron-transport chains.

Puckett et al. 1973; Ziegler, 

1975; 1977; Gunnison, 

1981.Nieboer et al, 1976; 

Shapiro, Petering & Shih, 1975; 

(108)

Effects of Acid Rain
Natural and anthropogenic variations of substrate and water acidity are a major factor governing 

the composition and health of bryophyte and lichen communities (Farmer, et al. 1992). At the 

level of the individual thallus, acidity affects nitrogen fixation, photosynthesis, growth, and 

cellular ultrastructure (Belnap et al. 1993). Besides these direct effects on physiological 

processes, environmental acidity can affect cryptogamic communities indirectly by altering 

substrate chemistry, thereby affecting species diversity and composition at the community level.

Bark pH interactions

Ecological studies of epiphyte communities have shown that, even in unpolluted areas, natural 

variations in bark chemistry have a major impact on which species are present ( Farmer, et al. 

1992). For example, Hale (1955) found that species of Physcia, Xanthoria, and Candelaria were 

more common on trees with bark pH values of 5.3 to 6.6. Many factors can influence bark pH. 

Tree species differ in this characteristic; for instance, conifers generally have lower bark pH than 

angiosperms. Other influential factors affecting the number and type of epiphytes present include 

the buffering capacity of the bark, dust accumulation, and the age of tree. Individuals of a single 

tree species can have markedly different bark chemistries and epiphyte communities (Farmer et 

al. 1992). For example, Gilbert (1970) showed that the pH of Fraxinus could vary on a single 

tree from 5.7 along a nutrient streak to 2.2 on the underside of a branch.

Gough (1975) speculated that continuous peeling off of bark scales may be one reason for little 

epiphytic cover on Pinus ponderosa in Colorado. He found that P. ponderosa bark loses water 

faster than the bark of aspens and Pseudotsuga menziesii, Abies lasiocarpa, Picea engelmanii,

and Pinus contorta. Distribution of lichens on trees may also be related to pH. The pH of the 

outermost newly-exposed orange bark of trees over 4 dm in diameter tended to be significantly 

lower (pH 3.5-4.27) than that of bark in furrows (pH 3.71-4.66) of the same trees and bark of 

smaller trees (pH 3.76-4.84). The pH of bark on twigs averaged about 4.78, significantly higher 

than bark on trunks; lichen cover on branches and twigs was generally more continuous on than 

on tree trunks.

The presence of pollutants also affects bark pH. Gilbert (1965) studied the pH of the bark of 

Fraxinus excelsior and Acer pseudoplatanus in and around Newcastle. While the average pH 

value of F. excelsior was 4.2 both at 31 km from Newcastle and in the city itself, the bark pH of 

A. pseudoplatanus dropped from 4.8 at 31 km from Newcastle to 3.5 in Newcastle. Robinia 

psuedoacacia trees growing in the vicinity of a pulp mill (Hoffman 1974) were found to have 

bark pH values of 6.4 to 5.2, with the lower values generally corresponding to the trees closest to 

the mill.

British researchers have noted that bark pH is a critical factor in the establishment of 

acidophilous species of the Parmelia laevigatae community, normally associated with high 

elevation woodlands. With continuing acidification these species can replace the lower elevation 

Lobaria community. Acid rain can reduce pH of both tree bark and lichen thalli (Farmer et al., 

1992).

Soil chemistry interactions
Variations in soil chemistry may be important. For example, Norwegian oaks with Lobarion

species grew mainly on nutrient rich soils. Variations in bark chemistry may be affected by

variations in soil cation availability. The relationship between soil and bark chemistry is further 

complicated by the ability of trees with acidic stemflow to acidify the surrounding soil, as 

demonstrated for Fagus sylvatica in Sweden (Farmer et al, 1992).

Bark and soil acidification is caused by the total H+ion input to the system. The critical H+ ion 

deposition load for epiphytes is the highest load that will cause a change in surface bark 

chemistry, particularly of base saturation, that can be countered by natural chemical and 

weathering processes (Farmer et al. 1992). For epiphytes, extreme events are evened out by the 

buffering capacity of bark, so that the best predictions of epiphyte response are probably made 

on annual averages of pollutant loading. Lichens may respond to short episodic pollution events 

within a local area that may be undetected by conventional analysis.

Other substrate interactions

Evidence from field observations, intensive studies of the environment at contrasting sites, and 

field and lab experiments (Farmer et al. 1992) show that acid rain can affect lichens both directly

and indirectly by the acidification of substrata. Seaward (1987) writes, "Regional pollution over 

wide areas has reduced lichen diversity, and has favored the expansion of a relatively small 

number of species formerly having narrower ecological requirements and/or more restricted 

distributions such as Buellia punctata, Lecanora conizaeoides, Lecanora muralis, Parmelia 

incurva, Parmeliopsis ambigua, Phaeophyscia orbicularis, Scolisciosporum chlorococcum, 

Xanthoria candelaris, and Xanthoria elegans." Pollution most greatly affects lichen species 

sensitive to high concentrations of H+and Al3+. In addition, when pollution occurs in poorly 

buffered environments, species such as Lobaria which normally thrive on mildly acidic to neutral 

substrate, will also be negatively affected (Farmer et al. 1992).

Acid fog

Fog, which often increases with increasing elevation, contains higher levels of dissolved ions, 

including H+, than precipitation rain or snow. Although the effects of occult deposition from fog 

on epiphyte communities have not yet been critically examined, acid fog has been implicated in 

changes to terricolous cryptogamic floras (Wolseley & James 1992). Desert lichens, which 

obtain most of their water from fog and dew, are particularly vulnerable to air quality and 

weather pattern changes (Follman 1995, Nash 1996).

Sensitivity of lichens to sulfur dioxide vs. acid rain

Species tolerant to acid rain need not be the same as those tolerant of SO2. Usnea species 

intolerant of SO2 grew on bark of low pH, while Parmelia sulcata was tolerant of SO2, but not of 

acid rain (Gilbert 1986).

Nitrogen enriched acid rain
The nitrogenous component of acid rain can produce a fertilizer effect on lichens and cause 

floristic changes. Søchting (1990) surveyed the tissue nitrogen content of reindeer lichens in 

Denmark. In unpolluted areas, tissue levels were 0.26-0.49 % while in areas of wet deposited 

acidity, values were 0.70- 0.73 % and visible injury could be found. However, the problem of 

defining critical loads for nitrogen has not been resolved. Presently, this is determined by the 

biological response of the system, and is very hard to quantify, compared to H+, which is 

measured by buffering capacity (Famer et al. 1992).

Lichen structure and physiology

The effects of acid rain on lichen structure and physiology include a decrease in nitrogen 

fixation, photosynthesis, and growth, and changes in cellular ultrastructure (Belnap et al. 1993). 

Hutchinson et al. (1986) treated Cladina rangiferina and Cladina stellaris with artificial acid rain 

for more than five years. They found reduced photosynthesis and chlorophyll levels, and 

decreased dry weight and podetial height of thalli of both species receiving pH 2.5. No effects 

were observed at pH 3 and above. Nitric acid applied alone at pH 2.8 caused dry weight 

increases of 62% over controls in C. rangiferina with an increase in tissue nitrogen levels. 

Sulphuric acid applied alone caused a significant reduction in dry weight.

Effects of Fluorine

The ability of lichens to accumulate F is a function of relative humidity, which determines the 

moisture conditions of the thallus. In general, obvious damage to lichens begins at levels of 50-

70 ppm (Gilbert 1971). The effects of fluorine include a decrease in respiration and 

photosynthesis, an increase in membrane and thallus permeability with a concomitant loss of 

ions, and changes in cellular ultrastructure (Belnap et al. 1993, LeBlanc et al. 1971).

Lichens exposed to ambient F at 4 mg F/m3accumulated F within their thalli, and eventually 

surpassed the critical concentration of 30-80 ppm (Perkins et al., 1980). Both in the field and in 

the lab, whenever the level of F within the thallus exceeded 80 ppm, chlorosis was observed. 

Subsequently, all the photosynthetic pigments were degraded and the lichen thalli disintegrated. 

In the field, wherever chlorotic transplants were found, high levels of F on lime filter papers 

were also found, suggesting that ambient F was the cause of the lichen injury. The lichens used 

in this study were Cladonia cristellata, C. polycarpoides and Parmelia plittii (Nash 1971).

Perkins et al. (1980) showed that F accumulation by corticolous lichens was negatively

correlated with distance from an aluminum reduction plant and that lichen damage and reduced 

abundance was due to F. SO2 emitted in combination with HF from a mix of industries in 

Whatcom County, Washington, was associated with a serious depletion of the lichen flora, even 

though emission levels were within acceptable limits based on human health standards set by the 

US Environmental Protection Agency (Taylor & Bell 1983).

Effects of photochemical toxins

Ozone, PAN and nitrogen oxides are toxic to lichens in sufficient concentrations. Ozone effects 

noted by researches have included decreases in photosynthesis, reduction in the geographical 
distribution of a species, and morphological and ultrastructural changes. PAN can also affect 

photosynthesis and cause ultrastuctural changes, while NOx effects are expressed in the loss of 

chlorophyll pigment (Belnap et al. 1993). In higher plants, oxidant air pollution is thought to 

disrupt normal pathways of energy by altering cell membranes; no comparable data for lichens 

exists, and experiments to determine the effects of ozone on lichens have yielded contradictory

results.

Field studies in the Los Angeles basin (Neel 1988, Sigal & Taylor 1979, Sigal & Nash 1983) 

show a broad correlation between lichen loss and increases in phototoxins in the past 80 years; 

however, phototoxins are difficult to research, as they are produced over a large area in low 

concentrations and have at most long-term or chronic effects on lichens (Hale 1981). Ozone 

appears to have little visible effect on roadside lichens (Lawry & Hale 1979). Lichen 

communities in the Indianapolis area were insensitive to differences in ozone levels. This could 

be due to an intrinsic species insensitivity to ozone, or from the fairly narrow ozone dose range 

observed. Over the three year study period the means of ozone deposition differed by 12 mg/m3

across sites, whereas means for SO2 differed by 17 mg/m3(McCune 1988). Photochemical 

toxins may have synergistic effects when combined with other pollutants, especially under low 

pH conditions but this synergy has not been conclusively documented (Farmer et al. 1992).

Ruoss and Vonarburg (1995) studied lichen metabolic activity in relation to ozone concentrations 

at three elevations in central Switzerland. They also fumigated lichens at 300 ppm for 34 days. 

While the fumigated lichens showed damage (bleaching and discoloration), the specimens from 

the field experiment were not differentially affected by ozone. The authors found that ozone 

levels never exceeded 120 ppm when relative humidity was high enough to sustain lichen 

metabolism and, therefore, lichens were not susceptible to ozone during periods of high ozone 

concentrations. While lichen diversity and abundance increased with elevation the highest ozone 

levels occurred at the highest elevations. The authors felt lichen diversity and abundance was 

primarily impacted winter pollution, i.e. acidic deposition, which decreased with elevation.

Effects of metals

Metal ions can be classified into three groups. Class A ions: K+, Ca2+, and Sr2+ are characterized 

by a strong preference for O2-containing binding sites and are not toxic. Ions in the B class: Ag+, 

Hg+, Cu+, tend to bind with N and S-containing molecules, and are extremely toxic to lichens 

even at low levels. Borderline class ions: Zn2+, Ni2+, Cu2+, Pb2+, are intermediate to Class A and 

B ions. Borderline ions, especially those with class B properties, e.g. Pb2+, Cu2+, may be both 

detrimental by themselves and in combination with sulphur dioxide (Nieboer & Richardson 

1981).

The toxicity of metal ions is the result of three main mechanisms: the blocking of essential 

biological functional groups, the displacement of essential metal ions, and the modification of 

the active conformation of biomolecules. In studies of specific ions, Nieboer et al. (1979) found 

that Pb2+ also affects cell wall permeability and causes K+efflux, which is correlated with a 

decrease in carbon fixation.
Limited field data is available concerning threshold concentration of metals in lichens. Tolerance 

mechanisms mainly involve immobilization of the toxic metal ions in biologically inactive 

forms. Tolerance to metals may be phenotypically acquired, but sensitivity of lichens to elevated 

tissue concentrations of metals varies greatly between species, populations, and elements (Tyler 

1989).

Methods of Study

Lichens have been used to assess deposition and air quality in hundreds of studies worldwide. 

Reviews of the literature on this topic include Richardson (1992), Stolte et al. (1993), Nash & 

Wirth (1988), Nash (1989) or see the bibliography to this document. The Lichenologist publishes 

an ongoing series "Literature on air pollution and lichens". Below we provide examples of 

different approaches.

Methods using naturally occurring lichens

Distribution mapping

Distribution mapping is the classic field method for studying lichens. It was also the first method 

used to indicate air quality with lichens (Showman 1988). Different kinds of maps can record the 

total number of species per site (richness), the percentage of the quadrants in which particular 

species can be found (frequency), presence or absence of indicator species, and the estimated or 

measured cover.

Mapping lends itself well to longitudinal studies that document temporal change. Using this 

method, Sigal and Nash (1983) compared lichen communities in the San Bernadino and San 

Gabriel Mountains of California in 1983 to epiphytic macrolichens on conifers reported by Hasse 

in the same area in 1913. A number of species were no longer found: Nodobryoria abbreviata, 

Bryoria fremontii, Nodobryoria oregana, Alectoria sarmentosa, Calicium viride, Cetraria 

canadensis, Platismatia glauca, Evernia prunastri. Other species, such as Cetraria merrilli, 

Parmelia quercina, Ramalina farinacea, and Cladonia spp., were found in only trace amounts. 

Species that were present included Hypogymnia enteromorpha, Melanelia elegantula, Melanelia 

subolivacea, and Letharia vulpina.

One disadvantage of presence/absence distribution mapping is that a species must disappear 

before an effect can be registered. To address this shortcoming, De Sloover & Leblanc (1968) 

developed the Index of Atmospheric Purity (IAP). At each site, this method assigns numerical 

values to characteristics such as frequency and cover. Then, using a mathematical formula, it 

reduces these values to a single IAP value for each site. The IAP values are then mapped. The 

primary limitation of IAP values is that they are not comparable from one geographic region to 

another. Even in the absence of pollution, climatic differences between regions can produce 

changes in the lichen communities that underlie the IAP values (see Hoffman 1974).

Gradient studies
Gradient studies correlate available pollution exposure data with observations of visible injury, 

species richness and species abundance.

Linear regression analysis is used to investigate the interrelationship between variables, and to 

predict one variable when the other is known. Taylor and Bell (1983) used regression to show 

that, at the 95% confidence level, there was a functional relationship between distance from a 

smelter in Tacoma, Washington and total lichen cover, with an increase in cover with increasing 

distance from the smelter. Compared to data collected in 1976, the SO2 emissions from the 

smelter and the mean concentrations of sulfur found in leaves of alder trees at the study sites had 

both decreased. This suggested that the correlation between lichen growth and distance from the 

smelter was more or less established during earlier periods of greater ambient SO2 levels.

Multivariate analysis of epiphytic macrolichen survey data was used to assess air quality in the 

southeastern United States (McCune et al. 1994). Two major gradients were revealed. The first 

gradient corresponded to a climatic gradient from the coast to the Appalachian mountains. The 

second gradient corresponded primarily to air quality, with pollution-tolerant species and lower 

species richness at one end of the gradient and pollution-sensitive species and high species 

richness at the other end of the gradient. The gradient model was then used to calculate air 

pollution impact scores for sites to answer questions regarding the spatial pattern and trends of 

air quality effects on forest resources.

Laboratory Measurements

Laboratory methods used to study the chemical, morphological and physiological responses of 

lichens to pollution include elemental analysis, physiological measurements, transplant studies, 

fumigation studies and photography.

Elemental Analysis

Methods of elemental analysis include atomic absorption spectrophotometry, neutron activation 

analysis, and X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (Nieboer & Richardson 1981). Commonly

analyzed elements include: S, N, Zn, F, Pb, Ni, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Cr, Cd, Zn, Ca, and several rare 

earth elements. A large body of information is developing on elemental content of lichens, both 

in natural states and under pollution stress (Nash 1996). Hale (1981) recommended that every

baseline study should include elemental analysis of lichen indicator species for future reference.

Using the gradient method, element concentrations within the lichen are usually observed to 

increase as the distance to the suspected source decreases. Gough and Erdman (1977) used linear 

regression to evaluate the relationship between distance from a coal fired power plant and metal 

levels in Xanthoparmelia chlorochroa. However, as Puckett (1988) point out, concentrations of 

many elements will not reach zero at large distances from pollution sources because they have 

essential nutritional roles or are normal components of the lichen when growing in its natural 

environment. When, both natural and anthropogenic sources contribute to the metals measured, 

identifying the relative contribution from each source becomes a complex task. Puckett (1988) 

reported a method of calculating "enrichment factors" to compare the concentration of metal 

within a plant with potential sources in the environment. The equation is
EF = x/reference element in lichen / x/reference element in crustal rock

Stable sulfur isotope ratios in combination with multi-element analysis of lichens were used to 

examine the influence of emissions from two coal-fired power plants i n the Yampa Valley on 

pollutant deposition in the Mt. Zirkel Wilderness of northern Colorado (Jackson et al., 1996). 

Coal-fired power plants typically emit SO2 with a stable isotope ratio 34S/32S characteristic of the 

coal combusted. Stable S isotope ratios in Usnea were significantly heavier (more positive) in 

the wilderness and nearby sites compared to more distant regional sites and corresponded well 

with sulfur isotope ratio found in snow in the same area and average isotope ratios in coal used 

by the power plants. Sulfur isotope studies are most easily interpreted when the point source of 

concern is the predominant source of sulfur in the study area. Xanthoparmelia cumberlandia

from the Mt. Zirkel area were also elevated in sulfur, nitrogen, potassium, sodium and 

phosphorus compared to more distant regional sites (>100 km).

Determining relevant elements is an important part of any multi-element study. In Switzerland, 

Herzig et al. (1989 & 1990) used multivariate analysis to compare element concentrations in 

Hypogymnia physodes to total air pollution as assessed by lichen communities using the IAP 

index and an instrumented monitoring network. Four groups were discerned.

 Group 1: Ca. Calcium was the only element which increased with improving air quality.

 Group 2: Pb, Fe, Cu, Cr, S, Zn and P. Concentrations of these elements decreased in 

distinct curvilinear gradients with decreasing total air pollution. For example, the 

concentration of Pb was reduced six-fold in the "very low pollution" compared to the 

"critical air pollution" zone. These elements were strongly correlated with annual average 

atmospheric deposition measurements detected by the instrument network.

 Group 3: Li, Cd, Co. Concentrations of these elements were lower in the "very low 

pollution" zone than in the "critical air pollution", but the gradients were not strictly

curvilinear.

 Group 4: Al, B, K, Mg, Mo, Na, Ni, Sn, Cl and organic S. These elements showed no 

clear gradients to the total air pollution..

Other cryptogams, especially mosses, have also been successfully used as pollution monitors 

(Winner 1988). Between 1989 and 1992, twenty-one European countries participated in an 

unprecedented effort to map atmospheric toxic metal deposition based on moss analysis (Rühling 

1994). Colored contour maps of the continent for As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Pb, Ni, Vd, Zn deposition 

were made from metal analyses of Hylocomium splendens, Pleurozium schreberi and some 

secondary species. A strong linear correlation between average annual atmospheric deposition 

and concentration by moss was observed for As, Cd, Cr, V, and Zn. which could be used to 

calculate atmospheric deposition. In northern Europe, metal concentrations generally increased 

from north to south with local toxic metal enhancements superimposed on the regional 

background pattern at the large smelting region of Russia in the western Kola Peninsula. In 

central Europe, major enhancements were detected around the industrial regions of the Ruhr area 

in Germany, western Czech Republic and adjacent eastern Germany, and southern Poland.

Physiological responses
The physiological responses of lichens to pollution can be observed and measured directly. 

Plasmolysis of cells of the algal component of the thallus can be measured microscopically. 

Respiration rates have also been measured. Von Arb et al. (1990), observed changes in the fine 

structure of chloroplasts. Chlorophyll content, as a measure of SO2 damage, was determined 

spectroscopically or by microfluorometry by Beltman et al. (1980), Kauppi (1980), Kauppi and 

Mikkonen (1980) and Gries et al (1995).

Transplants

Lichen transplants are used to assess air quality in areas where lichens are absent or sparse. 

Richardson (1992) reviews the use of transplants to assess air quality in urban environments and 

to monitor contaminants in air and water. Pearson (1993) discusses advantages and limitations of 

transplant methods. Ideally, healthy lichens are transferred from an area where they occur 

naturally to an area to a test area. Changes in physiology or element accumulation as a result of 

exposure to pollution are then studied. Physiological studies are most likely to be successful 

when using species well within their normal range of adaptation both at the source and at the test 

area.

Transplant techniques for common lichens in Pacific Northwest environments west of the 

Cascade Range crest are discussed by Shirazi et al. (1996) McCune et al. (1996) and Sillett 

(1994). Hypogymnia physodes, a fairly pollution tolerant lichen widely distributed in the Pacific 

Northwest, has been one of the most frequently transplanted lichens world-wide (Brodo 1966, 

Holopainen 1984, Farkas et al. 1985, Gailey et al. 1985, Vestergarrd et al, 1986, Søchting 1995).

Fumigation

Fumigation studies involve the controlled introduction of pollutants to lichens in either a closed 

chamber that allows for air movement, or in a chamber-free field environment. The purpose of 

this kind of study is to develop quantitative relationships between concentrations of air pollutants 

and various anatomical and physiological lichen responses. The anticipated outcome of air 

pollution fumigation experiments is a clear exhibition of dose-response relationships. Thus, 

fumigations for a long period of time at a low pollutant level would be expected to have the same 

effect as a shorter fumigation at a higher concentration where the dose, measured as 

concentration multiplied by time, is equal for each fumigation (Sanz et al. 1992) . The most 

commonly measured responses are physiological, such as photosynthesis, respiration, 

nitrogenase activity in blue green phycobionts, K+ efflux and/or total electrolyte leakage from 

the thallus, and pigment status.

A problem inherent in fumigation studies is that different portions of the thallus differ in their 

sensitivity and physiological response to pollutant exposure. Factors such as the hydration level 

and physiological status of the thallus, as well as the differential reactions of the algal component 

vs. the fungal component, can affect its sensitivity to exposure. In addition, the concentration and 

duration of exposure, and the environmental conditions under which exposure occurs, can also 

affect sensitivity (Fields, 1988).
A strength and limitation of fumigation studies has been the tendency of researchers to expose 

their experimental material to only a single pollutant under a given set of conditions. Air 

pollution involves multiple contaminants (Belnap et al. 1993), and it is important to develop 

methods to test for the synergistic effects of pollutants found in the field (Fields, 1988). Farmer 

et al. (1992) also stressed the need for long term fumigation studies employing realistic pollutant 

concentrations, as the way to demonstrate conclusively whether the levels of pollutants measured 

in the field were actually damaging to cryptogamic flora.

Researchers evaluating fumigation experiments also need to remain mindful of the ecological 

conditions under which the studies are carried out (Farmer et al. 1992). For example, water 

relations play a significant role in the uptake of SO2 by lichens (Grace et al. 1985). Dry lichens 

absorb far less SO2 than moist ones and are resistant to SO2 fumigation (Coxson 1988). The low 

humidities used in some studies (Showman 1972, Beekley & Hoffman 1981), could have 

completely dried the thalli. Thus, the finding that responses in some studies appear to be

independent of exposure time is not surprising (Fields & St. Clair 1984; Huebert et al. 1985). 

With poikilohydric plants such as lichens, it is difficult to maintain the water status and hence 

metabolic activity of a sample for more than a few hours. Complex laboratory equipment is 

necessary to successfully conduct fumigation studies.

The relationship between seasonal environmental conditions and pollution is an important 

adjunct to the findings of SO2 fumigation studies. For instance, NO2 reaches high levels in the 

winter when lichens and bryophytes are more likely to be wet and physiologically active. O3 

reaches its peaks in the summer. However O3, unlike SO2 and NO2 is not readily soluble in 

water and may damage cell membranes even in a dry state (Farmer et al. 1992). The time of year 

also affects lichen net assimilation rates; for example the net assimilation rates for Peltigera 

praetextata and Parmelia sulcata in June increased five times over the net assimilation rates 

recorded from October to March (Kershaw 1972).

Even though the various gaseous pollutants have different physiochemical properties, they affect 

the physiological systems of lichens in similar ways (Fields 1988). In general, greater 

concentrations of, and longer intervals of exposure to SO2 result in reduced photosynthesis and 

reduced respiration, although at low levels and short exposures SO2 can enhance 14C fixation. 

SO2 also produces membrane damage leading to K+efflux and total electrolyte leakage in a time 

dependent manner, with massive K+release occurring at increasingly lower SO2 levels as 

exposure time is increased (Fields 1988). Oxidants, O3 and PAN reduce photosynthesis. The 

order of sensitivity of lichen physiological processes to fumigation appears to be:

N2 fixation > K+efflux/total electrolyte leakage> photosynthesis and respiration > pigment 

status.

Table 4. The physiological responses of lichens after exposure to fumigated pollutants (Farmer et 

al., 1992, Fields 1988).

Response Pollutant

Reduced photosynthesis SO2, NaHSO3, Na2S2O5, O3, PAN.

Reduced respiration SO2
Decreased chlorophyll content SO2, NO2, HF

Increased electrolyte leakage, loss of K SO2, HF?

Reduced nitrogen fixation SO2, H2SO4 > loss w/< pH > exposure, NaHSO3, NaF

Photography

Some researchers have used photography as a way of monitoring air quality (e.g. Hale 1981). 

Marked sites can be rephotographed over time to compare growth rates and condition of 

individual lichen colonies. Care must be taken to distinguish between air pollution and local 

habitat stresses.

Air quality monitoring studies using lichens in the Pacific 

Northwest

Air pollution studies using lichens in the Pacific Northwest west of the Cascade ranges are 

gradually accumulating in number. Rhoades (1988) examined lichen communities and chemistry 

in Olympic National Park. (Gough et al. 1988) established baselines in Redwood National Park 

in northern California. Taylor and Bell (1983), and Johnson (1979) examined lichens in the 

Seattle-Tacoma area. Moser et al. (1983) investigated the impact of emissions from Mt. St. 

Helens on two lichen species of South-Central Washington. Geiser et al. (1994) working in 

southeastern Alaska, established element concentration baselines for Cladina rangiferina, 

Lobaria oregana, Hypogymnia enteromorpha, and Alectoria sarmentosa, lichens widespread in 

the Pacific Northwest. Rhoades (1996) reviewed the literature of tissue chemistry for lichens 

occurring in the Pacific Northwest. McCune and Geiser (1997) proposed sensitivity ratings for 

ninety-three lichens using field based, lichen community studies in western Washington and 

Oregon. Dennison and Carpenter (1973) documented air pollution in the Willamette Valley of 

Oregon. The USDA Forest Service and USDI National Park Service established air quality 

monitoring methods for using lichens (Stolte et al. 1993) and the EPA/USFS sponsored national 

FHM program has protocols (McCune 1994 ) currently used in adapted form (Geiser 1995) 

within the Pacific Northwest region of the USDA Forest Service for lichen monitoring. This 

program has accumulated a large database of lichen survey and chemistry information on a 3.4 

mile grid across five national forests and the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.

East of the Cascade Crest, published studies of air quality assessments using lichens are scarce. 

However, due to similarities in climate, vegetation, and lichen flora, those interested in Oregon 

and Washington air quality issues may find it useful to refer to some of the various baseline and 

point source studies in Idaho and Montana (Rope and Pearson 1990, Hoffman 1974, St. Clair and 

Newberry 1995), Wyoming (Gough and Erdman 1977) and Colorado (Jackson et al. 1996, Hale 

1981).