ibclogo XVI International Botanical Congess


Abstract Number: 3763
Poster No. = 196


Lichen conservation has not progressed as in the more charismatic groups of organisms


Clifford W. Smith, Honolulo, HI 96822, USA


Lichen conservation has not progressed as in the more charismatic groups of organisms. The small number of specialists and amateurs cannot generate the amount of data that has enabled other groups to enumerate rare or declining species with considerable accuracy. An IUCN specialist group working under the auspices of the International Association of Lichenologists has nominated 34 species. Erioderma pedicellatum, has been the subject of an information campaign with Canadian authorities that resulted in significant habitat protection. Many countries have red data lists but listing criteria vary, some lists are long, others very short and most are produced by a single scientist. The lack of world monographs for most groups makes the enumeration of rarity extremely difficult. Habitat disturbance, particularly from deforestation, is the most commonly cited threat. Air pollution appears to be less of a threat now that governments regulate industrial activity. Global climate change is an increasing concern.


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