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cup lichen

Scientific Name: Cladonia merochlorophaea

Family: Cladoniaceae

Category: Lichen

Growth: Lichenous

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Pixie Cup Lichen (Cladonia spp.)

Pixie cup lichens, belonging to the genus Cladonia, are fascinating organisms that often go unnoticed. Their miniature size and unique cup-like structures add a touch of whimsy to the environments they inhabit.

Considerations for Pets

  • These lichens can grow on logs and at the base of trees, which may be accessible to pets outdoors.

Considerations for Children

  • Pixie cup lichens are small and may be tempting for young children to pick or handle.
  • Historically, some Cladonia species have been used in remedies, but this does not guarantee safety.

Quirky Facts

  • The shapes of the lichen are sometimes compared to "Shrek's Ears" or miniature golf tees.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Cladonia (genus)
  • Common Names: Cup Lichen, Pixie Cup Lichen
  • Family: Cladoniaceae
  • Some species mentioned include:
    • Cladonia asahinae
    • Cladonia pyxidata
    • Cladonia chlorophaea
    • Cladonia coccifera (Elf Cup Lichen)
    • Cladonia borealis
    • Cladonia fimbriata
    • Cladonia cristatella (British Soldier Lichen)
    • Cladonia pityrea (Pityrea Lichen)
    • Cladonia monomorpha
    • Cladonia pocillum (synonym: Cladonia pyxidata var. pocillum)
    • Cladonia bellidiflora
    • Cladonia macilenta

Distribution and Habitat

  • Cladonia species are often found on the forest floor, typically on logs or at the base of trees.
  • They thrive in exposed subalpine sites, growing on poor soils and fallen logs.
  • Some species are considered boreal lichens, occurring across the boreal forest.
  • Specific locations mentioned include the Olympic Peninsula (for Cladonia chlorophaea), the Columbia River (Eagle Creek Trail), and the Pocono Mountains.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Cup lichens are moss-like lichens with cup-shaped structures.
  • The "pixie cups" are tiny cups, approximately 1/2 inch high.
  • Podetia (stalks) can be funnel-shaped, tapering gradually towards the base.
  • Some species have upright fruiting stalks.
  • Color varies, including greenish-grey and light-grey-green.

Ecological Role

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

Symbiotic Relationship

  • As lichens, they are a symbiotic combination of algae and fungus.