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jelly lichen

Scientific Name: Collema coccophorum

Family: Collemataceae

Category: Lichen

Growth: Lichenous

Duration:

Other Names: OH (soil pulp lichen)

       

River Jelly Lichen (Collema dichotomum)

The River Jelly Lichen, scientifically known as Collema dichotomum, is a fascinating lichen species with a distinctive appearance. Its common name aptly describes its jelly-like texture when wet and its preference for riverine habitats.

Considerations for Pets

  • This lichen grows on submerged rocks and boulders and is therefore unlikely to be encountered on dry land.

Considerations for Children

  • The lichen has a jelly-like texture when wet.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Collema dichotomum (With.) Coppins &amp Laundon
  • Common Name: River Jelly Lichen
  • Family: Collemataceae
  • Order: Lecanorales
  • Synonyms: While not explicitly stated, the text mentions "C. ohioense" as a synonym for COLLEMA CONGLOMERATUM, highlighting the complexities in lichen taxonomy.

Distribution and Habitat

  • The River Jelly Lichen is found in the upper reaches of rivers and streams.
  • It specifically grows on submerged rocks and boulders in fast-flowing water.
  • It's notably present in Northumberland.

Morphological Characteristics

  • The thallus (lichen body) forms flattened or erect rosettes.
  • Color ranges from bright to dark green.
  • Lobes are convex and finger-like, typically one to two centimeters long.
  • When wet, it has a gelatinous, seaweed-like appearance.
  • Thallus can be foliose, reaching 2-4 cm broad and black.
  • Spores are 4-septate, hyaline, and measure 20-40 by 3-4.5.

Ecological Role

  • It's a cyanolichen, meaning it contains cyanobacteria (specifically, Nostoc) as its photobiont.
  • Conservation efforts aim to safeguard existing populations from developments that might compromise them.
  • Canoe access must be managed to avoid impacting River Jelly Lichen populations.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • The photobiont partner is the cyanobacterium genus Nostoc.

Quirky Facts

  • Collema dichotomum looks more like a seaweed than a typical lichen.
  • Jelly lichens absorb water until they become jelly-like. One type is nicknamed "bat's wings" because it is fond of growing where there is a lot of mist.

Further Information

  • ARKive (now offline) was a resource for River Jelly Lichen photos and facts.
  • Encyclopedia of Life includes summaries and articles about Collema dichotomum.