Robert Lücking – författare

A richly illustrated guide to lichens and their biologyExisting at the margins of life, lichens are the result of symbiotic relationships between fungi and photosynthesizing partners in the form of algae or cyanobacteria. Comprising more than twenty thousand species, lichens are pioneers in diverse ecosystems, colonizing virtually any surface and growing at almost any altitude. Found in rainforests, polar regions, deserts, and your backyard, lichens embody a paradox of toughness and sensitivity, surviving trips to space yet endangered by even the slightest environmental changes from industrial pollution here on Earth. Lichens grow everywhere, but only on their own terms: no one has ever fully assembled a lichen in the lab from its component parts. The Lives of Lichens explores all facets of these peculiar organisms, blending stunning macrophotography and graphics with in-depth coverage of profiled species to provide an unforgettable tour of the marvelous world of lichens.Features a wealth of color illustrationsCovers symbiosis, biology, architecture, evolution, taxonomy, and much moreProvides an up-close look at lichens in their ecosystemsDiscusses human relationships with lichensEssential reading for nature lovers everywhere

A magnificently illustrated guide to the world’s extraordinary diversity of lichensLichens 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 lichensSheds light on the significant ecological roles of lichens and their function as bioindicators of environmental healthDiscusses the evolution, morphology, and classification of lichens, their role in ecosystems, and the conservation of lichens in the AnthropoceneWritten by two leading expertsAn essential guide for nature lovers everywhere