Common Lungwort Lichen

<em>Lobaria pulmonaria</em>, the common lungwort lichen, is a large foliose lichen in the family Lobariaceae, notable for its lobed, lung-like surface texture that inspired its common name. It is found in Asia (including Taiwan), Europe, and North America, typically growing on the bark of ancient trees and rock faces in old-growth forests with high air quality and humidity. This species is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, reflecting significant population declines driven by air pollution, deforestation, and the loss of old-growth forest habitats throughout its range. Lungwort lichen is a composite organism formed by a symbiotic association between a fungus and photosynthetic partners including green algae and cyanobacteria, allowing it to fix atmospheric nitrogen. It serves as an important component of forest ecosystems, providing habitat and food for invertebrates and contributing to nutrient cycling. The species is considered an indicator of ecological continuity and environmental quality in temperate and montane forest ecosystems.