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cup lichen
Scientific Name: Cladonia subulata
Family: Cladoniaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
Cladonia: The Cup Lichen
Cladonia, commonly referred to as cup lichen or pixie cup lichen, is a fascinating genus of moss-like lichens belonging to the family Cladoniaceae.
Considerations for Pets
- Some Cladonia species are described as having upright fruiting stalks, and the "cups" can have round-toothed edges.
Considerations for Children
- The text mentions the "cups" of Cladonia, specifically the pixie cup lichen, being about 1/2 inch high, resembling miniature golf tees. These small structures might be of interest to children.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Cladonia
- Common Names: Cup lichen, Pixie cup lichen
- Family: Cladoniaceae
Distribution and Habitat
- Cladonia species are often found growing on moss, particularly Chorisodontium.
- They are common on rotting stumps in wet lowlands, such as the Olympic Peninsula.
- Several species can be found growing on poor soils and fallen logs in exposed subalpine sites.
- They are described as boreal lichens, occurring across the boreal forest.
- Observed locations include the Eagle Creek Trail, Columbia River, and the Pocono Mountains.
Ecological Role
- Cladonia lichens serve as a primary food source for reindeer and caribou.
Morphological Characteristics
- Cladonia species are moss-like in appearance.
- Some species have podetia shaped like Shrek's ears or miniature golf tees.
- They feature cup-like structures (pyxie cups) that are typically small (around 1/2 inch high).
- Podetia can be funnel-shaped, tapering towards the base, and variably clothed with corticate granules.
- Some species have upright fruiting stalks.
Quirky Facts
- Historically, when boiled with milk or syrup, Cladonia has been used as a remedy for whooping cough and chest ailments.
- The text compares the shape of some Cladonia species' podetia to Shrek's ears or battered, sand-blasted miniature golf tees, offering a whimsical visual comparison.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- As lichens, Cladonia species represent a symbiotic relationship between algae and fungus.