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cup lichen
Scientific Name: Cladonia apodocarpa
Family: Cladoniaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
Cladonia: The Cup Lichens
Cladonia, commonly known as cup lichen or pixie cup lichen, is a fascinating genus of moss-like lichens belonging to the family Cladoniaceae. These lichens often exhibit cup-shaped structures, adding to their visual appeal.
Considerations for Pets
- Some Cladonia species grow on logs.
Considerations for Children
- The "pixie cup" name and appearance (miniature cups) might attract the attention of children.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Cladonia
- Common Names: Cup lichen, Pixie cup lichen
- Family: Cladoniaceae
- One species mentioned is Cladonia asahinae, also known as the pixie cup lichen, and Cladonia pyxidata.
- Synonyms/alternative names: The text mentions several other species, including Cladonia borealis, Cladonia fimbriata, Cladonia cristatella (British Soldier Lichen), Cladonia pityrea (Pityrea Lichen), Cladonia chlorophaea, Cladonia coccifera (Elf Cup Lichen), Cladonia pocillum, Cladonia bellidiflora, Cladonia macilenta and Cladonia monomorpha.
Distribution and Habitat
- Cladonia species are found in various environments, including boreal forests, rock outcrops, and on the forest floor.
- They often grow on mosses, logs, and at the base of trees.
- Specific locations mentioned include the Eagle Creek Trail in the Columbia River Gorge and the Olympic Peninsula.
Morphological Characteristics
- Cladonia species are moss-like lichens, often forming cup-shaped structures (podetia).
- The podetia of some species taper towards the base and may be covered with corticate granules.
- Some species, such as Cladonia chlorophaea, have erect, hollow, cup-like growths with round-toothed and curled cups.
- The size of the cups can be quite small, around 1/2 inch high.
- Some varieties have upright fruiting stalks.
Ecological Role
- Cladonia lichens are a primary food source for reindeer and caribou.
Quirky Facts
- The appearance of Cladonia podetia has been likened to "Shrek's Ears" or miniature golf tees.
- Historically, some Cladonia species have been used in remedies for whooping cough and chest ailments when boiled with milk or syrup.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Cladonia is a symbiotic relationship between algae and fungus.
- Some Cladonia species grow within lichen colonies of other species.