Answer
Despite being able to survive in harsh environments, lichens are highly susceptible to air pollution because they are unable to excrete toxins. Because of this sensitivity, lichens are good indicators of air quality. Maps of lichen diversity allows ecologists to track the spread of air pollutants over time and space.
Work Step by Step
Despite being able to survive in harsh environments, lichens are highly susceptible to air pollution because they are unable to excrete toxins. Because of this sensitivity, lichens are good indicators of air quality. Maps of lichen diversity allows ecologists to track the spread of air pollutants over time and space.