Have you ever taken a closer look at the wide range of lichens that grow on the trunks, branches and twigs of trees, and wanted to learn more about what these lichens actually are and why they have chosen to grow on trees? If so, the course Lichens on Trees might be for you. In this course you will get an introduction to the lichen symbiosis, how lichens function, and how they relate to the trees they grow on. You will learn why different tree species attract different lichen species, and how they reproduce and seek new spaces to grow on. And once you have developed an understanding of the physiology and ecology of lichens, we will use this to explore the responses of lichens to air pollution and climate change.
The self-paced distance learning course Lichens on Trees aims to help participants take notice of lichens on trees and interpret their observations. Through fieldwork and guided reflection, participants will learn to recognise some of the common and easily recognisable lichen species on trees where they live and explore what story these species tell us about their relation to the tree and the wider environment. The course consists of five topics, each rounded off with tutor feedback to a coursework submission. The course Lichens on Trees is an excellent starting point for people at the beginning of their lichen journey.
Next course dates:
31 August to 9 November 2026 (sign up here)
28 September to 7 December 2026 (sign up here)
9 November 2026 to 25 January 2027 (sign up here)
scottishlichens.co.uk 