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cup lichen
Scientific Name: Cladonia perforata
Family: Cladoniaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names: FL (deer moss, perforate reindeer lichen)
Cladonia (Cup Lichen)
Cladonia, commonly referred to as cup lichen, is a genus of moss-like lichens belonging to the family Cladoniaceae. The scientific name of a lichen refers to its fungal component.
Considerations for Pets
- Cladonia species are a primary food source for reindeer and caribou.
Considerations for Children
- Some Cladonia species, like Cladonia asahinae (pixie cup lichen), have cup-shaped structures (podetia) that may resemble miniature cups or golf tees.
- Historically, some Cladonia species have been boiled with milk or syrup for use as a remedy.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Genus: Cladonia
- Family: Cladoniaceae
- Common Names: Cup lichen, Pixie cup lichen
- Examples of Species: Cladonia asahinae, Cladonia pyxidata, Cladonia fimbriata, Cladonia borealis, Cladonia cristatella, Cladonia pityrea, Cladonia coccifera, Cladonia pocillum, Cladonia monomorpha, Cladonia bellidiflora, Cladonia macilenta, Cladonia chlorophaea
- Synonyms: Cladonia pyxidata var. pocillum is given as another name for Cladonia pocillum.
Distribution and Habitat
- Cladonia species are found in boreal forests and exposed subalpine sites.
- They often grow on moss, logs, at the base of trees, or on poor soils.
- Specific locations mentioned include the Olympic Peninsula, Columbia River Gorge, and the Pocono Mountains.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Cladonia lichens often have upright fruiting stalks.
- They exhibit diverse forms, including cup-shaped podetia, funnel-shaped podetia, and small cup-like structures.
- Some species feature podetia tapering towards the base, variably clothed with corticate granules.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Cladonia species form a symbiotic relationship between algae and fungus.
- They grow among mosses such as Chorisodontium.
- Cladonia macilenta may grow in colonies with Brachythecium frigidum.
Quirky Facts
- The pixie cup lichen looks like a tiny cup (1/2 inch high).
- Some describe the shape of Cladonia as resembling "Shrek's Ears" or miniature golf tees.
Further Information
- ResearchGate features publications on Cladonia species.
- The Lichen Society provides information on Cladonia species.