Ethnobotanical and Morphological Study of Lichen Species from Chota-Banghal and Holi Regions of Himachal Pradesh, India

This paper investigates the lichen diversity of the Chota Banghal area of Kangra district, and the Holi area of Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh, India. A total of 22 lichen species were recorded in the sites surveyed in this area, with elevation ranging from 1,600–2,250 meters. Foliose lichens were the most dominant growth form, followed by crustose and then fruticose. There were three families; Parmeliaceae (13 species) was the most numerous family, it was followed by Physciaceae (3 species). Overall, 10 families, 16 genera, and 22 species were identified in the study. In addition to providing a taxonomic document, this study includes a few ethnobotanical uses of lichen species traditionally recorded by local people in the study area. The results of this research provide an important baseline record for lichen and lichens biodiversity conservation and help provide some potential leads for future bioprospecting.