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Cryptothecia rubrocincta: The Christmas Lichen

Cryptothecia rubrocincta, commonly known as the Christmas Lichen or Christmas Wreath Lichen, is a fascinating species of lichen belonging to the Arthoniaceae family of fungi. It is also sometimes referred to as the Baton Rouge Lichen or Christmas Tree Lichen due to its vibrant red color, especially when covering the sides of cypress trees.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cryptothecia rubrocincta (Ehrenb.) G. Thor
• Family: Arthoniaceae
• Kingdom: Fungi (implied, as a lichen composed of fungi and algae)
• Synonyms:
  • Chiodecton rubrocinctum (Ehrenb.) Nyl.
  • Chiodecton sanguineum
  • Cryptothecia rubrocincta sanguineum (Sw.) Vainio
  • Herpothallon rubrocinctum (mentioned as aka)

Distribution and Habitat

This lichen is widely distributed in subtropical and tropical locations. It is commonly found in coastal Louisiana and the southeastern United States, including northern Florida (Apalachicola National Forest). It has also been documented in Brazil and Mexico.

Morphological Characteristics

Cryptothecia rubrocincta is a crustose lichen known for its fiery red color. The species epithet "rubrocincta" means "red-girdled" or "red-wreathed," referring to its appearance.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Cryptothecia rubrocincta is a composite organism consisting of algae and fungi.
• It has been found growing on hardwood bark and cypress trees.
• The yeast species Fellomyces mexicanus has been isolated from Cryptothecia rubrocincta specimens collected in Mexico.

Quirky Facts

• The vibrant red color of Cryptothecia rubrocincta has led to its common names associated with Christmas and Baton Rouge.
• It's a lichen, which is a symbiotic partnership between a fungus and an alga!

Further Information

• Tom Volk's Fungus of the Month (December 2006) - see TomVolkFungi.net
• Encyclopedia of Life
• Index Fungorum
• MyCoPortal
• MycoBank