Dendropogon

/ˌdendrəˈpoʊɡən/ noun

Definition

A genus of tree-dwelling lichens or an old taxonomic name for certain lichens found on tree bark.

Etymology

From Greek 'dendron' (tree) + 'pogon' (beard). The name refers to lichens that resemble a beard hanging from trees.

Kelly Says

Tree lichens like those in dendropogon are pollution detectors—scientists measure them to test air quality because they absorb whatever's in the atmosphere, making them nature's air monitors!

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