QUICK FACT: Dormant samples survived in space for roughly 18 months.

THREATS: Often thrives in nitrogen rich environments; more a pollution “winner” than a typical casualty.

IMPORTANCE: It is a vivid, adaptable lichen used to study how species adjust to very different habitats.

Photo credit: Rebecca Yahr

QUICK FACT: Dormant samples survived in space for roughly 18 months.

THREATS: Often thrives in nitrogen rich environments; more a pollution “winner” than a typical casualty.

IMPORTANCE: It is a vivid, adaptable lichen used to study how species adjust to very different habitats.

Photo credit: Rebecca Yahr