Uncover the fascinating world of lichens for yourself using this simple introductory guide to some easy-to-identify species found in woodlands and on rocky seashores. This introductory guide, written by Paul Whelan, author of ‘Lichens of Ireland’, is the perfect starting point to understanding what lichens actually are, where to find them and how to identify some common species.

Lichens are a special type of life; they are fungi that live in symbiosis with algae and/or cyanobacteria and take on a life-form different than the sum of their parts. They are ubiquitous, growing on rock and trees, old fences, brick, slates, soil, leaves and many other surfaces. They give colour to our coastline and add texture and colour to monuments and buildings.

West Cork is one of the best places in Europe to explore lichens. Amongst its lush Oceanic habitats, the extensive sessile oak woodlands of Glengarriff Nature Reserve stand out as one of the most lichen-rich hotspots.  Equipped with just a hand lens (or phone camera) and this guide, with its stunning photographs and clear, simple descriptions of species, your eyes will be opened to the Lilliputian word of lichens.

75 pages with full colour photographs.