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Lichen
What does lichen look like?
See, lichen is this green....thing. It's not a plant. It seems like a random weed growing on a rock. Sometimes it'll look like a small, puffy, green leafless bush growing on a tree. You'd probably think it's moss at first, but it might be lichen. It would be a good idea to look a bit closer! A few examples are crustose, squamulose, foliose, and fruiticose. They're on the picture below.
Where does lichen grow?
Hold on, Hold on. Did you forget? Lichen is NOT a plant! They can grow on boulders or rocks or tree trunks or leather or even the shells of living animals! They can grow almost anywhere!
Can you eat lichen?
A very long time ago, Native Americans would eat lichen if no other food was available. Their pets ate lichen too, when there was nothing for them to eat, they would have no other choice. Unless they wanted to starve to death or something. Just keep in mind that not all lichen are edible. DO NOT TEST FOR YOURSELF. Some lichen can be poisonous.
Other Uses
Lichen has been used as a material for creating dyes and perfumes. Many people adored lichen coloring. There is not many different uses for lichen, except for medical uses and dyes and perfume.
Sorry, I don't have an image for this one.
This here is called Reindeer Lichen. It's deep fried. ;)
Is lichen used for medicine?
Back in the old days, Lichen was used for lots of wounds. It is used for skin disorders. Some kinds even help with digesting food! Yes, you swallow it, Although it might taste a little bitter on your tongue. But have no fear, the kinds of lichen people give you are 100% edible. Anyway, some lichen can be used for medicine, just not all kinds of lichen.
Interesting Facts
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Did you know that there are approximately more than 20,00 lichen species found?
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Birds use lichen to camouflage their nests.
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Lichen is a mix of fungi and algae
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What makes the Turkey Tail fungus look like a Turkey Tail?
WARNING: Please keep in mind that all lichen are not edible. I mentioned this at the "Is lichen used for medicine?" paragraph. This is major because some lichen can be poisonous.
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