Lichens as barometers of changing climate in the Himalayas: Study
A recent study across the Indian Himalayas analyzed 1475 lichen species over an elevation range of 1000–4500 meters. Researchers found peak diversity at mid-elevations and linked specific functional traits to altitude-related climate shifts. These traits like growth form and algae type signal environmental changes, making lichens effective indicators of shifting Himalayan climate conditions.