They are simply amazing. Lichens are listed by their Latin names, but a few have common names. Now you might think that lichens are just great to look at and beautify the landscape. But guess again. On to the Lichen and the Environment section.
Lichens are very sensitive to pollutants in the air and are used as bioindicators .
Essentially, lichens are very sensitive to air pollution. When you start to see them die and disappear, you might suspect air pollutants as the culprit. Lichens provide food for animals. Humans have been known to eat lichens. Science fiction writers have been right before.