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reindeer lichen
Scientific Name: Cladina portentosa
Family: Cladoniaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
Reindeer Lichen (Cladonia rangiferina)
Reindeer lichen, despite its common name, is not a moss but a fruticose lichen, scientifically known as Cladonia rangiferina. It belongs to the Cladoniaceae family and is also referred to as reindeer moss or caribou moss.
Considerations for Pets
- The text mentions preserved reindeer moss being used in artificial mixed flower arrangements, suggesting it might be accessible to pets in homes or gardens.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Cladonia rangiferina
- Common Names: Reindeer lichen, reindeer moss, caribou moss, reindeer moss lichen, deer moss
- Family: Cladoniaceae
- Synonyms: Cladina rangiferina
Distribution and Habitat
- Reindeer lichens are found in extremely cold northernmost regions of the globe, including Arctic and north temperate regions.
- They often grow on moors and heathland, covering the ground like a carpet.
- Specific locations mentioned include Alaska, Canada, and the northern United States, as well as central Florida (Cladonia evansii and Cladonia subtenuis).
Ecological Role
- Reindeer lichen is a primary food source for reindeer (caribou) and moose.
- It grows in dense mats, influencing reindeer grazing patterns.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- It is a light-colored, fruticose (bushy and branched) lichen.
- It can grow up to 8 cm (3 inches) high.
- Up close, it resembles reindeer antlers with grey or brown "antlers" consisting of hollow tubes.
- When wet it is soft and pliable. When dry, it is wiry.
- Reindeer lichens frequently grow in dense mats.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Reindeer lichen is a symbiotic organism composed of a fungus and either algae or cyanobacteria.
- It serves as a food source for reindeer, caribou, and moose.
Quirky Facts
- Reindeer lichen is not a plant but a lichen, which is a symbiotic organism consisting of a fungus and algae. Some liken it to "fungi that have discovered agriculture."
- In Scandinavia, it has been used in the manufacture of alcohol, but its slow growth rate poses a challenge.
- Deep fried reindeer lichen is a food item served at Noma in Copenhagen.
Further Information
- ARKive (mentioned for photos and facts)
- Article by Tom Volk
- iDigBio and the Working group ARPO (Augmented Reality for Public Outreach)