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From Amazon
Lichens are, admittedly, easy enough to overlook. They stand out in most people's minds only as the orange, green, or grayish patches that festoon rocks and trees in mountain regions. But they are far more widespread than that, writes research scientist Irwin Brodo. Nearly every bioregion has a complement, and the continent as a whole boasts nearly 3,600 species (of about 14,000 worldwide). The first part of this book offers a near-encyclopedic survey of these lichens' form, structure, reproductive patterns, physiology, and ecological role. The second is a keyed guide to the continent's genera and major groups, including descriptions, range maps, and photographs, the last by the noted nature photographers Sylvia and Stephen Sharnoff.
Though far too hefty to serve easily in the field, this fine book deserves a place in the collections of natural historians and plant biologists doing work just about anywhere in North America. --Gregory McNamee
From Library Journal
Lichens are a combination of a fungus and an alga but have a unique structure and appearance quite different from either. Existing worldwide and growing on a variety of surfaces, including rocks, soil, and trees, they may appear leafy, shrubby, mossy, crusty, or jellylike and are seen in a wide range of colors, from brilliant oranges, yellows, and reds to dull grays and browns. This huge new book, written by a world authority on lichens and emeritus research scientist at the Canadian Museum of Nature, Ottawa, provides information on about 1500 of the roughly 3600 recognized North American lichens. Part 1 introduces lichens in 14 clearly written chapters that discuss their biology, ecology, geography, environmental roles, and collection. Part 2, the heart of the book, is a guide that offers identification keys to groups, genera, and species and their descriptions, with accompanying photographs and North American distribution maps. The more than 900 truly beautiful, full-color photos were taken by the Sharnoffs, nature photographers whose work has been widely published in National Geographic, Smithsonian, and elsewhere. Of value to professionals and amateurs alike, this book is certain to be a classic reference for decades to come. Highly recommended for academic and research libraries and for public libraries where interest warrants; libraries needing only a brief yet informative introduction to lichens should consider William Purvis's inexpensive Lichens (Smithsonian Institution, 2000). William H. Wiese, Iowa State Univ. Lib., Ames
Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
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Most helpful customer reviews
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
Fascinating , beautiful and informative...,
By Donna Bollenbach (Wimauma, FL USA) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Lichens of North America (Hardcover)
As an amateur naturalist and nature photographer I was intriqued by the colors, patterns and variety of lichens, but knew little about them. As my lichen photography collection grew,I wanted to identify the lichen species I had photographed, so I did some research. I returned over and over again to a website that highlighted the chapters and images in "Lichen's of North America." The book seemed an expensive investment for an amateur like myself, but, after reviewing other books on lichens at the library and in bookstores, I realized this book has no equal. Inevitably, I placed my order. When the book arrived, I was first surprised at how BIG it was. Hundreds of four color images jumped off the pages, each a work of art. Most importantly, the text is fascinating and easy to understand, even for a non-scientist. I read the first 14 chapters over the weekend. I was amazed by the important role lichens play in the biodiversity of life. It opened my eyes to an understudied and little understond life form that has a profound influence on the past and future of our planet. I recommend it to anyone who has any interest in biodiversity, natural succession, preserving the environment and nature in general. You will see Lichen in a whole new light!
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
A Joy to Read,
By
This review is from: Lichens of North America (Hardcover)
This is a book all naturalists will want to own, and it is not surprising that some have said that this is to lichens what Audobon's was to birds. It is a great gift to the naturalist community, courtesy of generous grants from 20 organizations. The text starts out with the basics, is clearly written, and exciting to read. The photos are outstanding. The paper is heavy coated stock: they did not skimp here. A real treasure, well worth it at twice the price. If you already know vascular plants and want to know more about the biological world, or are just fascinated by lichens, you can't go wrong.
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
Superlative in every way,
By Sagebrush Gardener (Washington State, USA) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Lichens of North America (Hardcover)
First, this book is enormous! 800 full-size glossy pages - it must weigh 15 pounds. Not something you want to carry around in your backpack.This book is truly a labor of love. Everything about it is of the highest quality, from the text to the photographs to the printing and binding. Not only do the authors know their subject intimately, but they delight in sharing their knowledge with the reader. A remarkable work, and a great tribute to everyone involved in its production.
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