Cafe Scientifique: "What Are Lichens?"

Carnegie Science Center's Podcast

What Are Lichens and What Do They Say About Air Quality in Our Region? Join Matthew R. Opdyke, PhD, for a discussion of his recent research on the lichen community in southwestern Pennsylvania, which included surveys of Frick, Schenley, Mingo Creek parks, and Forbes State Forest. Opdyke's research explores lichens as air pollution indicators, as well their characteristics in rural and urban environments. Lichen, a combination of algae and fungus, come in a variety of shapes and sizes with colorful names like candleflame, fluffy dust, and rough speckled shield. See photographs of lichens taken in southwestern Pennsylvania, learn how to identify lichens, and hear about conservation efforts in the region. Opdyke provides a closer look at lichens and reveals their importance to our regional ecosystem. Recorded at Carnegie Science Center in Pittsburgh, PA.