Introduction to Lichen and Bryophytes (mosses, liverworts, and hornworts) of Western Washington.

Did you know?? Lichens, rather than single organisms, are a complex community of different organisms all masquerading as one thing. Lichens are a way of life that many different fungi have figured out works for them. Bryophytes (mosses, liverworts and hornworts) are not your everyday plant. A closer view of their small green parts helps us to recognize and appreciate their diversity. Dr Rhoades will review the biology, taxonomy, ecology and human importance of each group. He will include a survey of some common species in Washington State west of the Cascade crest.


Biography of the speaker, Dr. Fred Rhoades:

Dr. Fred Rhoades grew up in upstate New York and did graduate studies in both mycology and lichenology at Oregon State University and the University of Oregon in the 1970’s. For his Masters and PhD theses, Fred studied the growth rates and population biology of the important northwest foliose lichen, Lobaria oregana. From 1977 to 2009, Fred was an instructor of biology at Western Washington University in Bellingham where he taught a variety of courses until retiring. He currently lives in Bellingham and continues to give occasional programs and weekend field workshops. Fred continues to spend much of his field time photographing a variety of lower life forms including mushrooms, lichens, bryophytes, slime molds and the odd plant and animal.