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cup lichen
Scientific Name: Cladonia ecmocyna
Family: Cladoniaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
Pixie Cup Lichen and Other Cladonia Species
The genus Cladonia, commonly known as cup lichens, encompasses a variety of fascinating moss-like lichens. These organisms are a symbiotic partnership between algae and fungi.
Considerations for Pets
- Some Cladonia species have cup-shaped structures (podetia) that might be tempting for pets to investigate or play with.
- The text mentions potential traditional uses involving boiling lichens with milk or syrup, suggesting the presence of unique substances.
Considerations for Children
- The small, cup-shaped structures of pixie cup lichens could be of interest to children.
Scientific Classification
- Genus: Cladonia
- Family: Cladoniaceae
Common Names
- Cup Lichen
- Pixie Cup Lichen (specifically for Cladonia asahinae and Cladonia pyxidata)
- British Soldier Lichen (Cladonia cristatella)
- Elf Cup Lichen (Cladonia coccifera)
- Forest Trumpets
Distribution and Habitat
- Cladonia species are found in various habitats, including forests, woodlands, and subalpine sites.
- They often grow on moss, logs, at the base of trees, rocks, and poor soils.
- Specific locations mentioned include the Olympic Peninsula and the Columbia River.
- They are considered boreal lichens, often found across the boreal forest.
Morphological Characteristics
- Cladonia species are moss-like lichens often exhibiting cup-shaped structures called podetia.
- These podetia can resemble miniature golf tees or "Shrek's Ears."
- Some species, like the pixie cup lichen, have tiny cups approximately 1/2 inch high.
- Fruiting stalks are upright.
Quirky Facts
- Cladonia species serve as a primary food source for reindeer and caribou.
Specific Species Examples
- Cladonia asahinae: Commonly known as pixie cup lichen, grows on moss, particularly Chorisodontium.
- Cladonia pyxidata: Also known as pixie cup lichen.
- Cladonia cristatella: Also known as British Soldier Lichen, identified by its red apothecia.
- Cladonia coccifera: Also known as Elf Cup Lichen.
- Cladonia fimbriata: Fringed cup lichen that grows among mosses.
- Cladonia chlorophaea: Sometimes called False Pixie Cup Lichen, common on rotting stumps.
- Cladonia pocillum: Cup Lichen.
- Cladonia bellidiflora: Cup Lichen.
- Cladonia monomorpha: A distinct species within the Cladonia pyxidata group.