Temporal fluctuations of mineral concentrations as related to the physiological status of the lichen Ramalina lacera (With.) J.R. Laund.

The present review deals with alterations in Ca, K, Mg, Na, and P content and chlorophyll integrity of the epiphytic fruticose lichen Ramalina lacera in a forested rural area in Israel over an extended period. In the years 1978-2002, Ca was found to accumulate in significant amounts whereas the P content decreased. The K content did not change significantly in this period. The Mg and Na content measured in the years 1993-2002 did not show a clear pattern of change, either. The accumulation of Ca coincided with a significant increase of dust storms, originating in the Sahara Desert, in terms of dust-stormy days. The source of the above-mentioned elements is discussed.