Q. With reference to lichens, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. Lichens are very good indicators of pollution.
2. Lichens grow well in polluted areas.
Select the correct answer from the code given below :
a) Only 2
b) Neither 1 nor 2
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Only 1
Correct Answer: d) Only 1
Question from UPPSC Prelims 2025
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct: Lichens are well-known bioindicators of air pollution, especially sulfur dioxide. They absorb water and nutrients directly from the atmosphere and lack protective structures, making them highly sensitive to airborne pollutants; their presence, absence, or diversity reliably reflects air quality.
Statement 2 is incorrect: Lichens do not grow well in polluted (urban/industrial) areas; high levels of pollutants like SO2 suppress or eliminate them.
