What is cup lichen?

Cup lichen is a type of lichen that is characterized by small, cup-shaped thalli that range in color from brown to green to yellow. The thalli are usually around 1-2 centimeters in diameter, and are attached to the substrate by a central stalk called a stipe. Cup lichen grows on a variety of substrates, including bark, rocks, and soil, and is found in a wide range of habitats, from arctic tundra to tropical rainforests.

One interesting fact about cup lichen is that it often forms symbiotic relationships with algae or cyanobacteria, which provide the lichen with essential nutrients and help it survive in harsh environments. Cup lichen is also used in traditional medicine and as a natural dye by some indigenous cultures.

However, like many lichens, cup lichen is sensitive to pollution and other environmental stressors, and is often used as an indicator species for ecosystem health. By monitoring the growth and abundance of cup lichens, scientists can gain important insights into the health and vitality of ecosystems around the world.