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reindeer lichen
Scientific Name: Cladina terrae-novae
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. It's a fascinating organism composed of a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and either algae or cyanobacteria.
Considerations for Pets
- The "antlers" of Reindeer Lichen are composed of hollow tubes, which might be of interest to pets, especially those that like to chew.
Common Names
- Reindeer Lichen
- Reindeer Moss
- Caribou Moss
- Deer Moss
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Cladonia rangiferina (also listed as Cladina rangiferina in some sources).
- Family: Cladoniaceae
- The text mentions a closely related species, Cladonia arbuscula (Tree Reindeer Lichen).
- Other species mentioned are Cladonia evansii and Cladonia subtenuis which are common in central Florida.
- Cetraria islandica (Iceland lichen) is another lichen sometimes confused with or used similarly to Reindeer Lichen.
Distribution and Habitat
- Reindeer lichen thrives in extremely cold, northern regions of the globe, including Arctic and north temperate zones such as Alaska, Canada, and the northern United States.
- It often grows in dense mats on moors and heathlands, covering the ground like a carpet.
- It is also found in central Florida.
Ecological Role
- It is a primary food source for reindeer (caribou) and other animals like moose in these regions.
Morphological Characteristics
- Reindeer lichen is light-colored and fruticose (bushy).
- It has an erect, greyish, branching structure that resembles reindeer antlers.
- It can grow up to 8 cm (3 inches) high.
- When wet, it is soft and pliable, but it becomes wiry when dry.
- It forms dense mats of varying thickness.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Reindeer lichen is a symbiotic organism, consisting of a fungus and either algae or cyanobacteria.
- It serves as a food source for various wildlife, particularly reindeer, caribou, and moose.
Quirky Facts
- Despite its name, reindeer lichen is not a moss, but a lichen.
- In Scandinavia, it has been used in the manufacture of alcohol, although its slow growth rate makes it difficult to obtain in large quantities.
- Some chefs have used it in culinary dishes, such as deep-fried reindeer lichen with mushroom powder.
Further Information
- ARKive provides photos and facts about reindeer lichen.
- Tom Volk has written an article on reindeer moss and lichens in general.