09 Jun Lichen Identification Assignment

Objective

To observe, identify, and describe at least one type of lichen found in your local environment using visual characteristics and available identification resources. You will combine real-world observation with online tools to make the most accurate identification possible. You will use your own photographs, AI assistance, Google searches, images, and an identification key to support your conclusions.

I recommend watching this introductory video before beginning the assignment:

Lichens Video Lesson https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YqHG7SOmtY4Links to an external site.

Instructions

1. Field Observation (2 points)

Visit a natural or semi-natural area such as a park, garden, campus, or neighborhood green space.

Look carefully for lichens growing on surfaces such as:

· Tree bark

· Rocks

· Wooden fences

· Walls or concrete surfaces

Choose one clearly visible lichen and take several clear photographs from different close distances.

Your observations should include:

· The location where the lichen was found

· The type of surface on which it was growing

· General appearance, color, and texture of the lichen

If the lichen is growing on a tree:

· Take a photograph of the tree leaves or bark

· Use an AI tool to help identify the possible tree species

2. Ask ChatGPT for Assistance (2 points)

Upload your lichen photograph to ChatGPT or another AI image-identification tool.

Ask the AI to help identify the lichen and describe its characteristics.

In your report, write 2–3 sentences summarizing:

· What ChatGPT suggested

· Possible lichen names or groups mentioned

· Any important identifying features discussed

3. Google Search and Identification Confirmation (2 points)

Use Google searches and image comparisons to refine your identification.

Suggested search examples:

· “Gray crustose lichen on tree bark”

· “Blue-green foliose lichen on tree bark”

· “Orange fruticose lichen on rocks”

Determine the lichen’s growth form:

· Crustose

· Foliose

· Fruticose

Use the following identification resource to help confirm your findings:

Florida Museum of Natural History Field-Oriented Keys to the Florida Lichens Portal: https://natl.ifas.ufl.edu/media/natl/pdfs/Lichens_NATL_final.pdfLinks to an external site.

Try to identify your lichen using either:

· A common name

· A scientific name (if possible)

Report Requirements (500–550 words) (2 points)

Prepare a typed report that includes the following sections:

Introduction

Briefly describe where you found the lichen.

Observation

Include:

· The clearest close-up photograph of the lichen

· Your name below the photograph

· Description of the substrate (tree bark, rock, wall, etc.)

· Description of colors, texture, and appearance

AI Identification

Explain:

· What ChatGPT suggested

· Important identifying features mentioned by the AI

· Possible lichen names proposed

Google and Identification Key Confirmation

Describe:

· What information you confirmed or refined using Google images and searches

· How the Florida identification key helped your analysis

Final Identification

Include:

· Your best guess for the lichen’s identity

· Its growth form (crustose, foliose, or fruticose)

· Any interesting colors, structures, or ecological features

Reflection and Conclusion

In approximately three lines, describe:

· Your experience completing the assignment

· What you learned about lichens

· Any conclusions or observations you found interesting

Submission Guidelines

· Typed document

· Times New Roman, 12-point font

· 1.5 line spacing

· Word count: 500–550 words

· Include at least 3 scholarly references in APA or MLA format