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cup lichen
Scientific Name: Cladonia santensis
Family: Cladoniaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
Pixie Cup Lichen (Cladonia spp.)
Cladonia, commonly known as cup lichen or pixie cup lichen, is a fascinating genus of moss-like lichens belonging to the family Cladoniaceae.
Considerations for Pets
- These lichens often grow on the forest floor, in gardens, or even in terrariums, potentially making them accessible to pets.
- Some species have cup-like structures (podetia) that could be investigated by curious animals.
Considerations for Children
- The small, cup-like structures (podetia) may be tempting for young children to pick up and handle.
- Some sources mention traditional uses involving boiling the lichen with milk or syrup, highlighting its potential use in ingested remedies.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Cladonia
- Family: Cladoniaceae
- Common Names: Cup lichen, Pixie cup lichen
- Species Examples: Cladonia asahinae, Cladonia pyxidata, Cladonia borealis, Cladonia fimbriata, Cladonia cristatella (British Soldier Lichen), Cladonia pityrea (Pityrea Lichen), Cladonia chlorophaea, Cladonia coccifera (Elf Cup Lichen), Cladonia monomorpha, Cladonia pocillum, Cladonia bellidiflora, Cladonia macilenta
- Synonyms: Cladonia pyxidata var. pocillum
Distribution and Habitat
- Cladonia species are boreal lichens, commonly found across the boreal forest.
- They often grow on moss, logs, at the base of trees, in forests, on rocks, and in exposed subalpine sites with poor soils.
- Specific locations mentioned include the Olympic Peninsula, Eagle Creek Trail (Columbia River), and the Pocono Mountains.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Cladonia are moss-like lichens.
- They feature upright fruiting stalks.
- They possess podetia (stalks) that are often cup-shaped or funnel-shaped. These podetia can resemble miniature golf tees or Shrek's ears.
- The podetia may be covered in corticate granules or soredia.
Ecological Role
- Cladonia species serve as a primary food source for reindeer and caribou.
Quirky Facts
- Some Cladonia species have structures that look like miniature golf tees.
- Historically, when boiled with milk or syrup, these lichens were used as a remedy for whooping cough and chest ailments.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Cladonia species exist in a symbiotic relationship between algae and fungus.
- They grow among mosses, such as Chorisodontium and Brachythecium frigidum.