Ciliate strap-lichen  (Heterodermia leucomela)

The causes of the decline of the ciliate strap-lichen in Great Britain are thought to be over-collecting, air pollution, fires, and trampling (3). Competition with scrub and coarse vegetation is also a threat (2).

This lichen is a priority species under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. The Species Action Plan aims to maintain and, where possible, enhance the known populations (2). All current populations receive a degree of protection, as they occur in Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) (8), and the species is afforded special protection by Schedule 8 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (2). The lead partner responsible for this species is the wild plant conservation charity Plantlife, which has included ciliate strap-lichen on its 'Back from the Brink' programme (6).