Researchers from the Nature Trust of New Brunswick are currently seeking out four different types of lichens, and they have successfully located one in a rather unconventional location. The scaly fringe lichen, scientifically known as heterodermia squamulosa, was discovered between Alma and Riverside-Albert, situated to the east of Fundy National Park. This finding marks the furthest eastern record of this species to date, as per statements made by Ilana Urquhart, a conservation coordinator at the Nature Trust.
Lichens are unique organisms that form a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and a photosynthetic partner, such as algae. They often manifest as crusty patches in shades of grey, yellow, or green, resembling moss, and are commonly found on trees and rocks. Despite their inconspicuous nature, lichens like the scaly fringe, along with the wrinkled shingle, blue felt, and white-rimmed shingle lichens being sought after, can be challenging to locate.
The Nature Trust’s assessment of these lichen species in the province has revealed that the wrinkled shingle lichen is endangered, while the white-rimmed and scaly fringe lichens are classified as threatened, with the blue felt lichen falling under special concern. These findings are crucial as lichens serve as indicators of a healthy environment capable of sustaining diverse species.
Urquhart emphasized that habitat loss, often caused by activities such as logging and harvesting, poses the most significant threat to lichens. Due to limited observational data on these organisms, the Nature Trust’s discoveries will be shared with fellow researchers and integrated into the province’s data repository. Supported by funding from Environment Climate Change Canada through the Habitat Stewardship Program, the Nature Trust’s ongoing search for lichens has expanded its scope this year, targeting various habitats including cedar swamps, maple swamps, and hardwood areas.
Their exploration has focused on regions like Charlotte County, the Wolastoq (St. John River), and the coastal islands of the Bay of Fundy. While they have successfully located several lichen species, the quest to find the elusive blue felt lichen continues, with knowledge of its presence in Charlotte County and on Grand Manan.