The first ever comprehensive survey of rare lichens at Stonehenge (England) was completed on Friday 16th May. The results of the week long survey will indicate what species are growing on the megalithic monument and enable these species to be preserved. The survey team of internationally renowned ecologists hopes that the number of known lichen species will have increased from the last count of 79.
     Alan Cathersides, English Heritage senior landscape manager, said: "This survey is part of a continuing process to help us understand more about the history and ecology of Stonehenge. Hopefully it will answer some of the questions on how these unique lichen communities have developed."

Source: BBC News (14 May 2003)