The idea that there's more to see than just what’s on the surface is an interesting concept which we incorporate into “Getting Into Nature”. Our mission is to look beyond just the obvious and investigate the organisms and ecosystems beyond the surface of what you can see.

We visited our local nature reserve in an effort to learn more about the structure of the woodland and the organisms you’re unable to see with the naked eye.

We first investigated the Lichen, which is a complex life form which is a symbiotic relationship between fungus and an alga. They can grow on almost any surface, survive any kind of environment and can even grow inside the grains of solid rock. They are all around us and are one of the most interesting and important biological partnerships in our ecosystem, yet most people rarely pay them any attention.

Beyond their resilience, lichens play a crucial role as environmental indicators. Their presence or absence can provide valuable insights into air quality and pollution levels. Scientists use lichen communities to monitor environmental changes, making them a silent yet powerful voice in the ongoing dialogue about our planet's health.

Lichen is also used in the dating of exposed rocks, known as lichenometry. Using a presumed rate of growth, it is possible to determine the length of time the surface of the rock has been exposed.

We also collected samples of the river water, moss and the topsoil to reveal the hidden ecosystems beneath the surface.

Plants which we sampled from the water have a biofilm which contains microorganisms. In these samples taken from the river we observed bacteria and colonies of diatoms. The water was relatively clean, which shows the rapid growth of water plants keeps the river clean.

Looking beneath our feet, a bustling community of microorganisms, insects, and plant roots play key roles in the ecosystem under the soil. Unseen by the naked eye, this complex ecosystem plays a vital role in nutrient cycling, water retention, and the overall health of the environment. Delving into the soil reveals a dynamic world where every organism contributes to the delicate balance of nature.

In our quest to appreciate the wonders of nature, looking beneath the surface becomes a transformative experience. Whether it's the thriving life in soil, the intricate dance of aquatic ecosystems, the hidden collaboration among trees, or the mysteries of intertidal zones, each ecosystem tells a unique story. By peeling back the layers and exploring what lies beneath, we gain a deeper understanding of the interconnected web of life that sustains our planet. So, the next time you find yourself in nature, take a moment to look beneath the surface.