Discovering Mosses and Lichens

Explore the fascinating world of the mosses and lichens. These are two important groups of living organisms, often a neglected component of many habitats. There are approximately 760 species of moss and 300 species of liverwort in the UK.

Lichens, with over 1000 species are an association of a fungus and an algae (a dual organism). Just like a marriage they generally get along together! They are particularly abundant in the clean and moist air of west Wales but visible all year round, in every habitat.

During the short course we will examine a range of mosses and lichens both indoors and around Denmark farm enabling you to develop basic identification skills. Identification usually requires a hand lens and a microscope is sometimes required. It will be easy to keep a small collection of samples or photographs for future reference. If the weather is poor a range of material can be collected to ID inside and the tutor will bring lots of additional samples.
A fascinating and valuable skill for professional ecologists and anyone who likes a challenge!
Please bring warm and waterproof clothing, boots and a packed lunch. Hot drinks will be provided.

Reference books, guides and keys for identification will be available to use on the day. The Field Studies Council pull-out identification guide ‘Key to ‘Lichens on Twigs’ is useful and will be on sale in the Denmark Farm Shop for £3.30. Also useful to have on the day would be a notebook, hand lens and some old envelopes to keep a small collection of common species.