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cup lichen
Scientific Name: Cladonia caespiticia
Family: Cladoniaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
Cladonia: The Cup Lichen
Cladonia, commonly referred to as cup lichen, is a fascinating genus of moss-like lichens belonging to the family Cladoniaceae. Known for their distinctive cup-shaped structures, these lichens play a vital role in various ecosystems.
Considerations for Pets
- Some Cladonia species possess upright fruiting stalks.
Considerations for Children
- Cladonia asahinae, also known as pixie cup lichen, has a distinctive "pixie cup" shape.
- The lichen's appearance can be described as miniature golf tees.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Cladonia
- Common Name: Cup Lichen, Pixie Cup Lichen (for certain species)
- Family: Cladoniaceae
- Taxonomic Rank: Genus
Distribution and Habitat
- Cladonia species are boreal lichens, commonly found across the boreal forest.
- They often grow on moss, logs, rocks, and at the base of trees.
- Specific locations include the Olympic Peninsula and the Columbia River.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Cladonia lichens are moss-like in appearance.
- They often feature podetia (stalks) shaped like tiny cups.
- Some species have funnel-shaped podetia tapering towards the base.
Ecological Role
- Cladonia species are a primary food source for reindeer and caribou.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- As a lichen, Cladonia is a symbiotic relationship between algae and fungus.
- It can grow on mosses.
Quirky Facts
- Some describe the lichen's appearance as resembling "Shrek's ears."
- The lichen has been used in the past, when boiled with milk or syrup, as a remedy for whooping cough and chest ailments.