Impact Type: Direct exposure to pollutant
Key Concerns:
Lecanora conizeoides, also known as the Pollution Lichen, is tolerant of SO2 and occurs in industrial areas where other lichens are absent (Hawksworth & Rose 1970a, Richardson 1988, Bates et al. 1990, van Dobben et al. 2001). L. conizeoides benefits directly from exposure to SO2 rather than indirectly through reduction in completion (Bates et al. 1996). As L. conizeoides is so well adapted to the industrial environment, it maybe possible to use it as a 'reverse' biomonitor by mapping its presence in areas of high air pollution and using its decline as an indication of improving air quality (van Dobben et al. 2001).
Additional Comments:
Prior to the industrial revolution, when SO2 emissions became much larger, L. conizeoides was a rather uncommon species. It is thought that this lichen was originally associated with volcanic springs.
Critical Load/ Level |
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No estimate available |