Common name: Old Man's Beard.
Scientific name: Usnea sp.
Family: Parmeliaceae
Distribution and Habitat: They are abundant in the Laurissilva, but are not exclusive of this forest. These lichens may be seen in Paúl da Serra, Poiso and Ribeiro Frio.
Description: The lichens are formed by long filaments hanging from the trees.
Conservation statute and Threats: Abundant, not threatened.
Observations: They serve as indicators of the ecosystem's good state.