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Orange lichen signals potential rare earth deposits, Chinese scientists find

Chinese scientists have identified a specific type of orange lichen as a potential indicator for rare earth element deposits. This discovery, building on previous work like the identification of copper grass, could aid in mineral exploration. The research, published in the journal Economic Geology, highlights the lichen's ability to grow on rare earth-enriched carbonatites. AI

RANK_REASON Research paper published in a peer-reviewed journal detailing a new scientific discovery. [lever_c_demoted from research: ic=1 ai=0.1]

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Orange lichen signals potential rare earth deposits, Chinese scientists find

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COVERAGE [1]

  1. SCMP — Tech TIER_1 English(EN) · Chao Kong ·

    Your backyard could hold a rare earth fortune – and this orange lichen is the clue

    Next time you spot a vivid orange-yellow crust spreading across a rock in your garden, on a country wall or along a hiking trail, take a closer look – you might be standing on a fortune. A Chinese research team has found that a humble lichen could serve as a visible field indicat…