SafePlants

Reindeer Lichen (Cladonia rangiferina)

Reindeer lichen, despite its common name, is not a moss but a lichen. It is also known as reindeer moss or caribou moss.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that deep-fried reindeer lichen is used in cooking.
• Reindeer lichen is described as wiry when dry, which may present a hazard.

Considerations for Children

• Reindeer lichen is described as wiry when dry, which may present a hazard.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cladonia rangiferina (also listed as Cladina rangiferina)
• Family: Cladoniaceae
• Common Names: Reindeer Lichen, Reindeer Moss, Caribou Moss, Reindeer Moss Lichen, Deer Moss
• Related Species: Tree reindeer lichen (C. arbuscula)

Distribution and Habitat

• Reindeer lichens grow in extremely cold, northernmost regions of the globe, including Arctic and north temperate regions.
• They often grow in dense mats on moors and heathland, covering the ground like a carpet.
• It's found in Alaska, Canada, and the northern United States.
• The text also mentions its presence in central Florida (specifically Cladonia evansii and Cladonia subtenuis).
• Rare inland reindeer lichens are also found at Mima Mounds in southwest Washington State.

Ecological Role

• Reindeer lichen is a primary food source for reindeer (Rangifer), caribou, and moose.
• It is also used by a large number of related lichen species that reindeer use.
• Logging and fire can affect reindeer lichen populations.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Reindeer lichen is a light-colored, fruticose (shrub-like) lichen.
• It is an erect, greyish, branching lichen.
• When seen up close, it resembles a reindeer's antlers, consisting of hollow tubes.
• It typically grows up to 8 cm (3 inches) high.
• It grows in dense mats of varying thickness.
• It is soft and pliable when wet but wiry when dry.

Symbiotic Relationship

• Reindeer lichen is a symbiotic organism consisting of a fungus and either unicellular algae or cyanobacteria.
• The fungus provides shelter for the algae/cyanobacteria.

Traditional Uses

• In Scandinavia, it has been used in the manufacture of alcohol.
• Iceland lichen and sometimes reindeer lichen have been used to prevent various disorders, and are sold in health food stores.
• It can be used as an emergency food source.

Quirky Facts

• Reindeer lichen is not a plant, but a lichen.
• It is said that lichens are fungi that have discovered agriculture.

Further Information

• ARKive: Offers photos and facts about Reindeer lichen.
• Tom Volk's article: Provides information on Reindeer Moss and lichens in general.
• iDigBio and the Working group ARPO (Augmented Reality for Public Outreach): Provided lichen card content.