Let me introduce you to an organism that may have been one of the first life forms on land. It comes in almost endless varieties are and is even capable of surviving in the voids of space! You can see them at almost any time of year and in any location: the humble lichen.

What is a lichen? Lichens are a symbiotic association between a fungus and a single celled, photosynthetic organism. The fungus provides a cozy home for its algal friends. The single-celled organisms create food, from sunlight, for the fungus. 1 in 5 fungi are known to form lichens. Fungi can switch up their single celled partner forming almost endless different combinations! At least in a laboratory setting. Scientists still don’t know exactly how many different lichens are out there (probably a lot). There are an estimated 2,000 in the UK alone. Here are some of my favourites to get you started.

The delicate Pixie Cup lichen (Cladonia species). These green cups, often found on top of wooden fence posts, look perfect for fairies to sip from!

Not a fan of tiny cups? How about a lichen that looks like it’s trying to communicate in an alien language? The script lichen is found on the bark of many trees. Look out for scribbled black letters on a white background.

Finally, the chewing gum lichen. This lichen is for the real thrill seekers. Will you find a fascinating lichen or just some pre-chewed gum? Then only way to know for sure is getting up close and personal with some concrete surfaces. Happy hunting!