SafePlants

Occult Jelly Lichen (Collema occultatum)

Collema occultatum, commonly known as Occult Jelly Lichen, is a fascinating lichen species. This page provides information on its taxonomy, distribution, and other interesting facts.

Considerations for Pets

• This lichen is referred to as "jelly lichen," which could imply a soft, potentially ingestible texture.

Considerations for Children

• This lichen is referred to as "jelly lichen," which could imply a soft, potentially ingestible texture.
• Some lichens are eaten and made into jams and jellies, so children may find the "jelly" moniker appealing.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Collema occultatum Bagl.
• Common Name: Occult Jelly Lichen
• Family: Collemataceae
• Kingdom: (Implied: Fungi, due to being a Lichen, a symbiotic relationship between fungi and algae.)
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Varietates:
  • C. o. var. occultatum
  • C. o. var. populinum
• Synonyms: None explicitly mentioned, but the text refers to "Occultatum" as an alternative name.

Distribution and Habitat

• The text includes a distributional map reference to the USDA, NRCS (2009), suggesting its presence in the United States.
• The text mentions the lichen growing on leaf trees.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Growth Habit: Lichenous
• It is referred to as a "jelly lichen," suggesting a gelatinous texture.

Quirky Facts

• The Occult Jelly Lichen is on the Norwegian red-list, implying a conservation concern in that region.

Further Information

• Catalogue of Life: 2012 Annual Checklist
• USDA, NRCS (2009) distribution map.
• Dave's Garden is mentioned as a resource.
• ARKive (for information on River Jelly Lichen, a related species).