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Dactylospora parasitica

Also known as the parasitic dactylospora lichen, Dactylospora parasitica is a fascinating lichenicolous fungus. This means it's a fungus that lives parasitically on other lichens.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Dactylospora parasitica (Flrke ex Spreng.) Zopf
• Rank: Species
• Family: The provided text alludes to Dactylosporaceae.
• Synonyms: The text mentions several related species and taxonomic variations which may, depending on the source, be considered synonyms or closely related species, for instance:
  • Dactylospora saxatilis (Schaerer) Hafellner
  • Dactylospora lobariella (Hafellner 1979)

Considerations for Pets

• Lichenous growth may be found on trees or rocks in outdoor environments.

Distribution and Habitat

• This species has been reported in various locations, including Australia, Great Britain, Ireland, and Romania (Retezat Mts).
• It is found in regions covered by the Lichen Flora of the Greater Sonoran Desert.

Ecological Role

• Dactylospora parasitica is a parasite on other lichens, specifically Pertusaria hymenea.
• It exhibits different degrees of specificity and parasitic behavior.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• It is known to infect mosses in close relationship with Epibryon species.
• Other lichenicolous fungi and lichens often co-occur with Dactylospora species.
• It can be found on Lobaria pulmonaria.

Quirky Facts

• Dactylospora parasitica is a lichenicolous fungus which may be observed in association with various other lichen species, indicating complex interactions within lichen communities.

Further Information

• The text mentions "Garden Guides," "Drone-Application-Server database," and "British Lichens" as potential resources for more information.
• "Plantilla:Plantae Mundi/Fuentes/ACNW" is referenced as a source, likely an online database.