Threat and conservation strategies of overlooked organisms: the case of epiphytic lichens

In this chapter, the main ecological factors that characterize the epiphyte environ- 7 ment and which determine the composition of epiphyte communities have been 8 described. In particular, emphasis has been made to focus on epiphytic lichens 9 which, due to their ecophysiological characteristics, represent a set of highly 10 specialized organisms that live in a delicate balance in this habitat. The main 11 threats that threaten their survival have been analysed along with the conservation 12 actions that have been undertaken to ensure the maintenance of the populations of 13 the most endangered species have been reviewed. Furthermore, some good 14 practices are suggested that can guarantee greater success of future protection 15 actions.