No images found for this plant ID: 11828.
Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "11828" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.
jelly lichen
Scientific Name: Collema pulchellum
Family: Collemataceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
River Jelly Lichen: A Deep Dive
Explore the fascinating world of River Jelly Lichen (Collema dichotomum), a unique lichen species with intriguing characteristics and ecological importance.
Common and Scientific Names
- Common Name: River Jelly Lichen
- Scientific Name: Collema dichotomum
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Family: Collemataceae (often referred to as "jelly lichens")
- Order: Lecanorales
- Synonyms: Collema dichotomum (With.) Coppins & Laundon
Description and Morphology
- The thallus (lichen body) can form flattened or erect rosettes, ranging in color from bright to dark green.
- It has convex, finger-like lobes that are typically one to two centimeters long.
- When wet, it becomes gelatinous.
- Thallus foliose, to 2(4) cm broad, black, gelatinous when wet, with broadly rounded lobes isidia and soredia lacking spores 4-septate, hyaline, 20-40 by 3-4.5.
Habitat and Distribution
- This aquatic lichen typically grows on submerged rocks and boulders in fast-flowing rivers.
- It has been found in the upper reaches of rivers, including locations in Northumberland, Great Britain, and Wales.
Ecological Role
- It can be a key species in its habitat.
- Canoe access may adversely affect the populations of the River Jelly Lichen.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- The photobiont (photosynthetic partner) of this lichen is the cyanobacterium genus Nostoc.
Additional Information
- Encyclopedia of Life includes briefs and articles about Collema dichotomum.