Show some love for nature's hero

Lichens are often dismissed as stains but they're incredibly beneficial to us and our whole ecosystem

- DIARMUID GAVIN

RECENTLY I was asked how to remove stains from a path. My initial reaction was to suggest a power wash as this will usually leave the place spick and span.

However on closer inspection the stains appeared to be a form of plant life, namely lichens, growing on the path.

Lichens are a unique combination of two different organisms. They combine a fungus and an algae or cyanobacteria. These live together, the fungus providing shelter for the algae, and the algae providing carbohydrates via photosynthesis in turn. This is an example of a symbiotic relationship which is mutually beneficial to both species.

They are also beneficial to us and good for our ecosystem. They don't harm plants or the rocks they grow on as they are not parasitic. They help support birds who use lichen for nests, and can provide food and shelter to insects. When you see soft, hairy lichen on trees, it's an indicator the air is clean.