Lichens as long-term biomonitors of air quality in central Italy

The results of a long-term study (data of 1978 and 1993) performed in central Italy using epiphytic lichens both as indicators and monitors (accumulators) are presented. Floristic data showed that air quality in the study area did not change markedly in this 15-year period and is currently fairly good. Similarly, the concentrations of trace elements in Parmelia caperata thalli showed no substantial change, with values similar to those in lichens of unpolluted areas. The concentration of 137Cs in P. caperata and Lobaria pulmonaria thalli doubled after the Chernobyl accident, but was low compared to other European areas.