Bio-indicators

Bio-indicators

A bio-indicator or biological indicator is any species or group of species whose function or status reveals the qualitative status of the environment. Biological indicators are used to document and understand changes in earth’s living systems especially changes caused by the activities of an expanding human population. Bio-indicators of soil health give us information about soil structure, development, nutrient storage and biological activities.

Biological indicator characterises the state of an ecosystem and brings its modifications. Lichen is a natural bio-indicator of climate change and air pollution effect. It is a combination of an alga and a fungus which live together in symbiotic association. Lichen is a sensitive environmental parameter like temperature, humidity, wind and air pollutants. It gives information about changes in climate, air quality and biological process.