What is lichen?

We found this beautiful composition of deciduous leaves, moss and lichen on our hike today.  Did you know that lichen is a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and an algae? So cool!

The children know that lichens are a particular favorite of mine and point them out everywhere they find them. Our budding mycologists want to learn more.  They looked this lichen up in the field guide and think that it is Caperat lichen (Flavoparmelia caperata).

Lichen experts, help us out!  Will you tell us more in the comments sections?