No images found for this plant ID: 10118.
Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "10118" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.
needle lichen
Scientific Name: Chaenotheca phaeocephala
Family: Coniocybaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
Needle Lichen (Chaenotheca spp.)
Needle lichens, belonging to the genus Chaenotheca, are a fascinating group of lichens found in various environments. They are part of the family Coniocybaceae.
Considerations for Pets and Children
- Needle lichens can be found growing on trees and rocks, sometimes near fallen pine needles, which might be of interest to pets or children exploring outdoors.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Chaenotheca (various species, e.g., Chaenotheca brunneola, Chaenotheca gracillima, Chaenotheca chrysocephala, Chaenotheca ferruginea, Chaenotheca laevigata)
- Common Name: Needle Lichen, Pin Lichen
- Family: Coniocybaceae
- Synonym: Coniocybe furfuracea (L.) Ach.
Description
- Needle lichens are characterized by their unique growth form and often appear as tiny, pin-like structures.
- They are composite organisms, typically a combination of a fungus and either a green algae or a blue-green algae.
Habitat and Distribution
- Needle lichens are found in various locations, including forests and parks.
- They can be found growing on tree bark, rocks, and even among pine needles on the forest floor.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Lichens, including needle lichens, can play a role in biomonitoring, reflecting the levels of certain substances in the environment.
Further Resources
- Lichen Flora of the Greater Sonoran Desert Region
- Catalogue of Life