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Lichen Indicator Helps Spot Rare-Earth Deposits From Rock

8/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Chinese researchers identified a lichen as a visible field indicator of rare-earth deposits.
The lichen forms an orange-yellow crust that is easy to spot on exposed rock.
Researchers suggest pairing the lichen indicator with UAVs and hyperspectral sensing to scan large areas.
Professor Li Yang noted the finding follows the 1950s copper-grass indicator and was published in Economic Geology on July 27.

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Story summary

Chinese researchers identified a lichen as a visible field indicator of rare-earth deposits.
The lichen forms an orange-yellow crust that is easy to spot on exposed rock.
Researchers suggest pairing the lichen indicator with UAVs and hyperspectral sensing to scan large areas.
Professor Li Yang noted the finding follows the 1950s copper-grass indicator and was published in Economic Geology on July 27.