Flora and fauna
in forest park Háj-Nicovô

Monk’s hood lichen

Hypogymnia physodes

Monk’s hood lichen

Monk’s hood lichen (Hypogymnia physodes) is a lichen species found worldwide in various biotopes, including forests, meadows, and tundra. Lichens are symbiotic organisms (symbiosis = coexistence) that consist of a fungus and photosynthetic microorganisms such as algae or cyanobacteria.

The monk’s hood lichen is distinguished by a green- or blue-gray thallus (body), which can reach up to 20 cm diameter. The thallus is usually flat and lobed, with a wrinkled or grooved surface.

It is an important part of many ecosystems, providing food and habitat for various organisms, including insects, birds and small mammals.

It is a bio indicator of air quality, being sensitive to pollutants such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. If these substances are present in the air, the lichen will stop growing or die, indicating poor air quality.

It has a long history of use in traditional medicine for the treatment of illnesses such as respiratory infections, wounds, and inflammation. It contains compounds that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The monk’s hood lichen has cultural significance for many indigenous peoples who have traditionally used it as food, medicine, and for spiritual purposes.

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