Lichens of Dhing, Nagaon District, Assam
Year: 2025
Type: other
Abstract: Lichens are symbiotic associations between a fungus and an alga or, in some cases, a cyanobacterium. This partnership enables both organisms to persist in habitats such as bare rocks or tree bark, where neither could survive independently. Due to their sensitivity to environmental changes, lichens serve as reliable bioindicators for monitoring ecosystem health and air quality. Their presence and diversity in a region provide valuable insights into local environmental conditions. The present study documents the diversity and distribution of lichens in Dhing town, Nagaon district, Assam, with particular emphasis on the Dhing College campus and adjacent areas. The region, characterized by a humid tropical monsoon climate and rich vegetation cover, offers favorable conditions for the growth and establishment of diverse lichen communities. The varied vegetation structure and availability of suitable host trees further contribute to the richness of epiphytic lichen communities. The observed diversity and abundance of lichens indicate favorable microclimatic conditions and relatively low levels of air pollution in the region. These findings provide baseline data on lichen diversity in Dhing and highlight the significance of lichens as indicators of environmental quality.
Authors: Nath, Sanjeeb Kumar, Saikia, Manoj Kumar, Talukdar, Uddhab, Terangpi, Mousumi
Institution: Nagaon University
Language: English
Topic: Lichen and fungal ecology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7124846523