No images found for this plant ID: 14385.
Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "14385" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.
crater lichen
Scientific Name: Diploschistes actinostomus
Family: Thelotremataceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
Crater Lichen: An Overview
The term "Crater Lichen" commonly refers to various species within the genus Diploschistes, particularly Diploschistes scruposus. These lichens are known for their distinctive appearance and widespread distribution.
Considerations for Pets
Lichens, in general, often grow on rocks and other outdoor surfaces. It is worth noting that the thallus (body) of Diploschistes lichens is described as thick and cracked, so contact with the lichen could cause minor skin irritation, depending on the surface it is attached to.
Considerations for Children
As with pets, children who frequently explore outdoors may encounter Diploschistes lichens. It's useful to note that the thallus is thick and cracked, so contact with the lichen could cause minor skin irritation, depending on the surface it is attached to.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Diploschistes scruposus (for at least one species referred to as Crater Lichen)
- Common Name: Crater Lichen, Cowpie Lichen (for Diploschistes muscorum ssp. muscorum)
- Genus: Diploschistes
- Family: Thelotremataceae
- Order: Graphidales
- Synonyms:
- Urceolaria scruposa (for Diploschistes scruposus)
- Diploschistes bryophilus (for Diploschistes muscorum ssp. muscorum)
- Diploschistes canadensis (for Diploschistes muscorum ssp. muscorum)
- Symbol: DIPLO5 (as indicated in EOL data)
Distribution and Habitat
- Diploschistes has a worldwide distribution.
- They are frequently found growing on rocks, particularly in areas near craters such as Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, Panum Crater, and active volcanic sites.
- They are also found in Crater Lake National Park.
- They may be the dominant form of vegetation on rocks, even near volcanic craters.
- Diploschistes gypsaceus is found on the Colorado Plateau but is strongly restricted to gypsiferous soils.
Morphological Characteristics
- Diploschistes lichens are crustose, meaning they form a crust-like layer on the substrate.
- They have a thick, cracked (areolate) body (thallus).
Ecological Role
- Lichens, including Diploschistes, are often the first organisms to colonize bare rock surfaces, playing a crucial role in soil formation.
- Lichens are a food source for animals like caribou.
Quirky Facts
- Some enthusiasts seek out glazes that mimic the appearance of lichens, lava, and volcanic craters for ceramics.
Further Information
- ARKive (for photos and facts)
- EOL (Encyclopedia of Life) Taxon Page
- Wikimedia Commons
- Catalogue of Life
- LSID JSON / WMS /RDF Data links
- NPLichen: A Database of Lichens in the U.S. National Parks