SafePlants

Soot Lichen: A Natural Indicator of Air Quality

Soot lichens, belonging to the genus Cyphelium, are fascinating organisms that can tell us a lot about the environment around us. Often found on wood and trees, these lichens are particularly sensitive to air pollution, making them valuable indicators of air quality.

Considerations for Pets

• Soot lichens often grow on wood and trees, which may be accessible to pets outdoors.

Scientific Classification

• Kingdom: Fungi
• Family: Caliciaceae
• Genus: Cyphelium

Common Names

• Soot Lichen
• Yellow Soot Lichen (for species such as Cyphelium lucidum and Cyphelium tigillare)
• Notaris' Soot Lichen (Cyphelium notarisii)
• Cupped Soot Lichen (for Cyphelium inquinans)
• Sooty-knobbed Lichen (for Cyphelium inquinans)

Synonyms

• Cyphelium inquinans (Sm.) Trevis. for Soot Lichen

Distribution and Habitat

• Found in Europe and North America.
• Typically grows on wood, including charred pine stumps.
• Can be found on trees and buildings, especially in areas with smoke or soot deposits.
• Observed in locations such as Ruhnu, where they grow on trees, and the North Shore of Lake Superior, Ontario, Canada.

Ecological Role

• Soot lichens are natural indicators of air pollution. Their presence or absence, and even their color, can reflect the level of pollutants in the air.
• The decline of lichens in industrial areas, due to soot, demonstrates their sensitivity to pollution.

Morphological Characteristics

• Fruiting bodies are small and disc-shaped.
• Some species, like yellow soot lichen (Cyphelium lucidum and Cyphelium tigillare), have yellow areoles and black apothecia.
• Many lichens, including yellow soot lichen, are small enough to require a magnifying glass for detailed observation.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Soot lichens are sensitive to air pollution, and their presence can be affected by soot deposits on trees and buildings.
• The presence of soot can kill off lichens, leaving tree trunks bare or covered in soot.

Quirky Facts

• The presence of Soot Lichens can be used to diagnose the type of stain found on vinyl siding.
• Soot Lichens are frequently referenced for knitting patterns.

Further Information

• Catalogue of Life