OBSERVATIONS ON THE LICHEN FLORA OF HIGH GROUND IN THE WEST OF IRELAND

The lichen flora of high ground in the west of Ireland is described by reference to four localities (Brandon Mountain, Muckanaght, Ben Bulbe n, Slieve League). These were selected on the basis of their reputatio n for calcicolous alpine vascular plants and for being some of the mos t highly oceanic mountains in Europe. The montane element in the liche n flora is strictly limited, populations being small and isolated, alt hough sub-montane species are more frequent. A small group of 44 speci es has been identified, which is 30% fewer than is found in either the Lake District or Snowdonia; their distribution and ecology are descri bed. The margin of high-level rams on Brandon Mountain support communi ties of outstanding importance, including Rinodina fimbriata, new to t he British Isles. Seventeen lichens are reported as being new to Irela nd. (C) 1996 The British Lichen Society