I’ve been fascinated by lichens since I was a child. Something about the way they seem to struggle on rocks for survival, I guess.
I used to think lichens were a type of fungus, but later in life found out they are composite life forms — a symbiosis between a fungus and a partner organism (like an algae or cyanobacteria). So lichens are actually a complex community, with a unique ability to survive and even thrive in the harshest spots (like on rocks or tree trunks)
Besides their interesting biology, I like the patterns lichens produce — interesting colors, textures and shapes. Sometimes seeming like nature’s art.
These photos were taken in central Idaho, not far from Grangeville.
