Although formal scientific publications are an important venue for the dissemination of our work on the lichen biota of the Coastal Plain, there are clearly limitations to this static format. Specifically it does not incorporate user input efficiently, a factor that is particularly relevant when producing identification keys. Often, we produce keys for internal use and these evolve over time to be included in an eventual publication. However this process can take years only rarely benefits from the extensive review of those who actually use the keys. Therefore we have decided to take the unusual step of providing unpublished keys to various lichen groups occurring within the Coastal Plain. The keys are available as .pdf files and are periodically updated (see version number and date at the beginning of each file). These can be accessed using the query interface below to search for a taxonomic group or by clicking here to generate a list of all available files. Note, to obtain keys for sterile sorediate crusts the user should search for “sterile lichen”.

Sample Key: Sterile Crustose Lichens

Click here to access pdf files of preliminary keys for the sterile asexually reproducing lichens of North America (illustrations are included).