Scaly breck lichen  (Squamarina lentigera)

This species has declined through loss of habitat, largely due to a fall in the rabbit population through myxomatosis. This has led to a lack of grazing and reduced opportunities for colonisation of new areas by the lichen. Spray drift from neighbouring farming activities may also pose a threat. There could also be an indirect impact through ammonia and other nitrogen compounds increasing the vigour of the surrounding vegetation, and reducing the areas of open ground the lichen requires.

Scaly Breck lichen is listed in the UK Biodiversity Action Plans (UKBAPs), and is included in English Nature's Species Recovery Programme (SRP). With any species of plant and animal in decline, it is vital to establish what has or is happening to reduce its numbers. Research has determined the causes for this lichen's reduction in populations, and all its existing sites are now protected. It has also been successfully re-introduced to suitable sites within its former Breckland range. Lichens are easily overlooked, yet they are fascinating organisms. It is just as essential that they receive protection, and that efforts are made to conserve them, as any of the more glamorous and well-known species in the British Isles.