Citation. Pearson, L. C.; Lawrence, D. B. 1965. Lichens as microclimate indicators in northwestern Minnesota. The American Midland Naturalist 74(2):257-268.   [1761  CC]

Abstract. In a pilot study conducted in northwestern Minnesota, different kinds of lichens showed characteristic patterns of distribution, correlated with height above ground, suggesting that they may be of value as indicators of microclimate. The study also indicated that mosses may feasibly be employed to indicate differences in moisture. Lichens covered on the average 35% of the bark of Quercus macrocarpa in the study area. Coverage was greatest in the prairie region and least in the transition region between prairie and forest. Although 21 kinds of foliose lichen were present, 81% of the cover was made up of Physcia aipolia, Candelaria concolor, Xanthoria fallax, and Ph. grisea.