SafePlants

Arctic Finger Lichen (Dactylina arctica)

Dactylina arctica, also known by the common names Arctic Finger Lichen and Finger Lichen, is a fascinating species of lichen found in arctic regions. It belongs to the family Parmeliaceae.

Considerations for Pets

• This lichen has finger-like stalks that may be attractive to pets.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Dactylina arctica (Richardson) Nyl.
• Family: Parmeliaceae (though its placement is considered questionable)
• Synonyms: Mentions Dactylina madreporiformis, Dactylina ramulosa, and Pertusaria dactylina as potentially related, though they might refer to different classifications or historical taxonomy.
• Other Species: Mentions Dactylina beringica as a separate North American species.

Distribution and Habitat

• Primarily found in Arctic regions, including Alaska (Denali National Park and Preserve), arctic Alaska, and other parts of North America and even locations like Colorado.
• Grows on mossy tundra.
• Also found in alpine tundras.
• Dactylina ramulosa can be found growing on limestone.

Morphological Characteristics

• Forms finger-like stalks.
• Thallus is hollow.
• Dactylina ramulosa ('Frosted Finger Lichen') can be white to brown to pinkish colored, pruinose, and short.
• Dactylina arctica is described as a fruticose (shrub-like) species.
• American Arctic Lichens describes it as having fragile, erect podetia (stalk-like structures).

Ecological Role

• Well adapted to harsh climatic conditions.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Grows on moss.
• Found among remains of Dryas octopetala.

Quirky Facts

• One common name is "Dead Man Fingers" or "Baby Fingers".
• Its finger-like stalks are well adapted to the harsh arctic climate.

Further Information

• Encyclopedia of Life: Provides general information and possibly distribution maps.
• ITIS (Integrated Taxonomic Information System): Source for common names and classification.
• Toolik-Arctic Geobotanical Atlas: Contains information, particularly on Dactylina ramulosa.
• University of Victoria CA: Mentions the common name "arctic finger lichen."
• Yale University Press's "Lichens of North America": Mentioned as a resource containing information and a distribution map for Dactylina arctica.