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Lichens are not autonomous organisms but a symbiotic partnership between fungi and photosynthetic algae or cyanobacteria. With more than 20,000 species found across the globe, they are an enormously successful life-form, capable of surviving in some of the harshest environments on the planet. This book provides a wide-ranging look at the 117 currently accepted families of lichen-forming fungi. The introductory section covers topics ranging from the biological structure of lichens to their lifecycle and symbiotic relationships with other organisms. This is followed by a fact-filled directory profiling at least one exemplar genus of each family and highlighting its unique characteristics. Lichens of the World is a self-contained reference for scientists, naturalists, and anyone interested in lichens.

• Features hundreds of stunning full-color photos and distribution maps showcasing the variety, exquisite beauty, and diverse habitats of the world’s lichens
• Sheds light on the significant ecological roles of lichens and their function as bioindicators of environmental health
• Discusses the evolution, morphology, and classification of lichens, their role in ecosystems, and the conservation of lichens in the Anthropocene
• Written by two leading experts
• An essential guide for nature lovers everywhere