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cup lichen
Scientific Name: Cladonia pleurota
Family: Cladoniaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
Pixie Cup Lichen (Cladonia spp.)
The Cladonia genus, commonly known as cup lichen or pixie cup lichen, is a fascinating group of moss-like lichens belonging to the family Cladoniaceae. These lichens are appreciated for their unique appearance and ecological significance.
Considerations for Pets
- Some Cladonia species have cup-like structures that may be tempting for pets to investigate.
Considerations for Children
- The small, cup-like structures of Cladonia lichens might be appealing to young children.
Scientific Classification
- Genus: Cladonia
- Family: Cladoniaceae
- Note: The scientific name of a lichen refers to its fungal component.
Common Names
- Cup lichen
- Pixie cup lichen (specifically for species like Cladonia asahinae and Cladonia pyxidata)
- Forest Trumpets
Distribution and Habitat
- Cladonia species are found in various habitats, including boreal forests and subalpine sites.
- They often grow on moss, logs, the forest floor, at the base of trees, and on poor soils.
- Specific locations mentioned include the Olympic Peninsula, Columbia River Gorge, and the Pocono Mountains.
Morphological Characteristics
- Cup lichens are characterized by cup-shaped structures (podetia).
- Podetia can vary in shape, being funnel-shaped or having upright fruiting stalks.
- Some species have podetia tapering gradually towards the base.
- The exterior of the podetia can be covered with corticate granules or farinose soredia.
Ecological Role
- Cladonia species are a primary food source for reindeer and caribou.
Quirky Facts
- Some describe the shape of Cladonia lichens as resembling "Shrek's Ears" or miniature golf tees.
Traditional Uses
- Historically, some have boiled cup lichens with milk or syrup as a remedy for whooping cough and chest ailments.
Species Examples
- Cladonia asahinae
- Cladonia borealis
- Cladonia bellidiflora
- Cladonia chlorophaea
- Cladonia coccifera
- Cladonia cristatella
- Cladonia fimbriata
- Cladonia macilenta
- Cladonia monomorpha
- Cladonia pityrea
- Cladonia pocillum (syn. Cladonia pyxidata var. pocillum)
- Cladonia pyxidata
Further Resources
- Lichen Society
- ResearchGate