Common Greenshield lichen

Description:

Common Greenshield is one of our most common lichens. A lichen is special, because it is not one organism, but two. A lichen is a complicated relationship between a fungus and an algae. A lichen is created when the fungus and algae join together to form a new organism. The lichen looks different than the way the fungus or algae looks by itself. The lichen can also reproduce itself and looks like a plant. The relationship between the fungus and algae is not fully understood, but scientists are studying to learn more.

Habitat:

Common Greenshield grows on tree trunks or rocks. Some trees that often have Greenshield on them are maples and oaks. Lichens do not damage trees. Common Greenshield grows well in shady, damp places, especially in woods.