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cup lichen
Scientific Name: Cladonia subsetacea
Family: Cladoniaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
Pixie Cup Lichen (Cladonia spp.)
Cladonia, commonly known as pixie cup lichen or cup lichen, is a fascinating genus of moss-like lichens belonging to the family Cladoniaceae.
Considerations for Pets
- Some Cladonia species have upright fruiting stalks.
- The text refers to Cladonia lichens growing on logs or at the base of trees, suggesting they are found in outdoor environments where pets may encounter them.
- The plant is described as having small, cup-like structures and sometimes corticate granules, which might be tempting for pets to ingest.
Considerations for Children
- The common name "pixie cup lichen" suggests a whimsical appearance that might attract children's attention.
- The lichen's small size (e.g., 1/2 inch high cup) means it could be easily picked up by children.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Cladonia
- Family: Cladoniaceae
Distribution and Habitat
- Cladonia species are boreal lichens, occurring across the boreal forest.
- They often grow on moss, logs, rock outcrops, or at the base of trees, particularly in areas with poor soils.
- One species, Cladonia chlorophaea, is common on rotting stumps in wet lowlands on the Olympic Peninsula.
Ecological Role
- Cladonia species serve as a primary food source for reindeer and caribou.
Morphological Characteristics
- Cladonia lichens are moss-like in appearance.
- They feature cup-like structures or fruiting bodies, sometimes described as resembling miniature golf tees (podetia).
- The "cups" can be funnel-shaped, with a sprinkling of light-grey-green "pixie dust" (likely referring to soredia).
- Some species, like Cladonia pyxidata, have small cups (around 1/2 inch high).
- Others, like Cladonia monomorpha, have thallus lobes with narrowly recurved features.
- Some species have apothecia.
Quirky Facts
- Some have described the shape of Cladonia podetia as resembling "Shrek's Ears" or miniature golf tees.
- Historically, when boiled with milk or syrup, some Cladonia species were used as a remedy for whooping cough and chest ailments.
- They are perfect for cooler spaces.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- As lichens, Cladonia species are composed of algae and fungus in a symbiotic relationship.
- They often grow among mosses.
- Other lichens, such as Cladonia macilenta, can grow in colonies with Cladonia species.