Quick Answer
Moss is a more reliable moisture indicator than lichen, as it typically thrives in consistently humid conditions and can indicate areas with high moisture levels. Moss can grow in a variety of environments, but it generally prefers shaded, damp areas. Lichen, on the other hand, can tolerate a wider range of moisture levels and can thrive in areas with varying humidity.
Moss Growth Patterns
Moss growth patterns can be a reliable indicator of moisture levels. Typically, moss grows faster in areas with consistent moisture levels, forming dense, green mats. In contrast, lichen growth is often more variable and can form in areas with lower moisture levels. If you observe moss growing in a particular area, it’s likely that the spot receives consistent moisture. Conversely, if you don’t see moss growing in an area, it may indicate that the spot is too dry.
Lichen’s Limitations
While lichen can tolerate some moisture variation, it’s not as reliable a moisture indicator as moss. Lichen can form in areas with as little as 20% relative humidity (RH) and can thrive in areas with up to 80% RH. However, lichen growth rates are often slower than moss growth rates, making it less suitable for tracking changes in moisture levels.
Using Moss for Navigation
In the wilderness, moss can be used as a navigation aid to determine direction. The “moss navigation myth” states that moss grows more densely on the north side of trees, but this is not entirely accurate. While moss does grow more slowly on the south side of trees due to reduced moisture, it’s not a reliable indicator of direction. However, if you observe moss growing on a tree, you can use the direction of the tree’s branches and the surrounding terrain to estimate the direction of north. A more accurate approach is to use a compass or other navigation tools to determine direction.
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