Discovery and science
Often referred to as the "cousins" of fungi, they are actually much more complex, the result of an intimate alliance between a fungus and an alga. But even more than their biological uniqueness, they are intrepid pioneers. Found in almost every environment except vast expanses of ocean, lichens grow everywhere from sea-sprayed cliffs to rocky mountain peaks, lush tropical forests, and even the facades of our homes. Their astonishing ability to adapt, their resistance to the most extreme conditions, and their infinite range of shapes and colors have always aroused the curiosity of scientists and nature lovers. Their diversity, the multiple roles they play in ecosystems, and their various applications are fascinating. This book invites you to dive into the captivating world of lichens and discover the species that inhabit the Col du Lautaret and the Briançon region. Armed with an identification key, let yourself be guided on this naturalist adventure into the heart of a world that is often overlooked but infinitely rich...
