AuthorDobson, F.S.
Year2000
TitleLichens, an Illustrated Guide to the British and Irish Species, Ed 4
ISBN0 85546 094 6
TypeBook/Report
How Complete700 of the 1700 British species known at the time
SourceFourth edition, 431pp, The Richmond Publishing Co. Ltd
IllustrationsColour photographs and line drawings throughout
Review (by Malcolm Storey)

A modern user-friendly introduction to lichen identification. Ideal for the serious beginner, as well as those with more experience, and small enough to carry around as a memory jogger for the specialist. If there is a criticism, it is, as the author admits, that the species selection reflects the author’s southern location.

The keys begin, after a very short introductory section, with a group key which enumerates the lichen growth forms (with ample line drawings for the beginner), followed by further lists for foliose, fruticose and crustose lichens. The same information is then presented as an indented key (p29). These both lead to a set of tabulations identified by the letters A through T which list the genera with codes (p28) for habitat; chemical tests; spore colour, type and number; soralia or isidia and notes.

The remainder of the book comprises the geenra, in alphabetical order, each with keys to species and species accounts. Most species are illustrated with a (usually colour) photograph and a hectad (10Km) distribution map. The genus entry has a line drawing of spore, ascus, K/I reaction of ascus tip, paraphysis etc, as appropriate.

Altogether a well thought out and nicely presented book.

Apparently a further edition is in proof (2005) to take account of the large number of recently described species and to improve the representation of Scottish species.

Superseded by Edition 5, 2005.

Errata, Corrigenda & Comments

P37/8 J. Perithecia key: *Pyrenula* has septate, brown spores but is listed under "Spores colourless septate".

*Dimerella* p149 - Hymenium K+blue is an error for I+ blue?

*Lecanora* key, p185 - couplet 34: first alternative should lead to 37.

Examine with x15 or x20 hand lens ( Compound Microscope is also useful)
Specimen PreparationChemical tests often needed and also microscopy of the apothecium in some groups.

Notes & PurposeStatusTaxonEnglishClassification
For identificationCurrent[Lichenes]lichensFungi
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