SafePlants

Cup Lichen (Cladonia spp.)

Cup lichens, belonging to the genus Cladonia, are fascinating organisms commonly found in various ecosystems. They are not plants but rather a symbiotic partnership between fungi and algae.

Considerations for Pets

• Some Cladonia species may grow on logs or at the base of trees, potentially accessible to pets exploring outdoors.

Considerations for Children

• The cup-like structures of some Cladonia species, especially those referred to as "pixie cups," are small and might be tempting for young children to pick or handle.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cladonia spp.
• Common Names: Cup lichen, Pixie cup lichen, British Soldier Lichen, Elf Cup Lichen, Trumpet Lichen
• Family: Cladoniaceae
• Note: The scientific name of a lichen refers to its fungal component.

Distribution and Habitat

• Cladonia species are found in various environments, including boreal forests, exposed subalpine sites, and on the forest floor.
• They often grow on mosses, poor soils, fallen logs, and rotting stumps, particularly in wet lowland areas.
• Specific locations mentioned include the Olympic Peninsula, Eagle Creek Trail in the Columbia River Gorge, and the Pocono Mountains.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Cladonia lichens are often described as moss-like.
• Many species have cup-shaped fruiting bodies or stalks (podetia).
• Some species, like the "pixie cup" lichens, have tiny cup-like structures (approximately 1/2 inch high).
• Podetia shapes can vary, with some being funnel-shaped and tapering towards the base.
• Some species have upright fruiting stalks.
• Colors range from greenish-grey to light-grey-green.
• Some species may have red apothecia (fruiting bodies).

Ecological Role

• Cladonia lichens serve as a primary food source for reindeer and caribou.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Cladonia lichens represent a symbiotic relationship between algae and fungi.
• They may grow among mosses, such as Chorisodontium and Brachythecium frigidum.
• Other lichens, like Cladonia macilenta, may grow in the same colony.

Quirky Facts

• Some people compare the shape of Cladonia podetia to "Shrek's Ears" or miniature golf tees.
• Historically, some Cladonia species have been boiled with milk or syrup and used as a remedy for whooping cough and chest ailments.

Resources and Further Information

• ResearchGate: For scientific publications such as "Cladonia monomorpha, a neglected cup lichen from Europe."
• Lichen Society: For information on Cladonia species with brown apothecia.