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cup lichen

Scientific Name: Cladonia botryocarpa

Family: Cladoniaceae

Category: Lichen

Growth: Lichenous

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Cladonia: The Cup Lichen

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 are characterized by their unique cup-shaped structures and play a vital role in various ecosystems.

Several species are mentioned in the text, including Cladonia asahinae, Cladonia pyxidata, Cladonia borealis, Cladonia fimbriata, Cladonia chlorophaea, Cladonia coccifera, Cladonia pocillum, Cladonia bellidiflora, Cladonia cristatella, Cladonia pityrea and Cladonia monomorpha.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some Cladonia species may be found in terrariums.

Considerations for Children

  • The text mentions the cup-like structures of Cladonia lichens, which are small and may be of interest to children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Genus: Cladonia
  • Family: Cladoniaceae
  • Common Names: Cup lichen, Pixie cup lichen
  • Synonyms: The text notes the importance of the fungal component in lichen nomenclature.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Cladonia species are described as boreal lichens, found across the boreal forest.
  • They often grow on moss, logs, at the base of trees, in wet lowlands, and on poor soils in subalpine sites.
  • Specific locations mentioned include the Olympic Peninsula and the Columbia River (Eagle Creek Trail).

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Cladonia species are moss-like lichens.
  • They exhibit cup-shaped structures, sometimes described as "pixie cups."
  • Some species have upright fruiting stalks and funnel-shaped podetia.
  • Variations in appearance include corticate granules, soredia, and red apothecia in some species.

Ecological Role

  • Cladonia lichens are a primary food source for reindeer and caribou.

Traditional Uses

  • Historically, Cladonia lichens, when boiled with milk or syrup, have been used as a remedy for whooping cough and chest ailments.

Quirky Facts

  • The text humorously compares the shape of Cladonia to "Shrek's Ears or miniature golf-tees."