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California mountain lichen
Scientific Name: Dimelaena californica
Family: Physciaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
California Lichens: A Diverse Flora
California boasts an impressive lichen diversity, with nearly 1,900 species documented across the state. From coastal regions to high mountain ranges, these fascinating organisms contribute significantly to California's unique ecosystems.
Considerations for Pets
- Some lichens may grow on trees frequented by animals, such as oaks, potentially leading to incidental ingestion by pets like mule deer who eat lichens.
Scientific Nomenclature and Taxonomy
- One specific lichen mentioned is Dimelaena californica, also known as California Mountain Lichen.
- Dimelaena californica belongs to the family Physciaceae.
Distribution and Habitat
- Lichens are more diverse along the California coast, particularly in areas like the Channel Islands National Park.
- They are also abundant in southern California mountains, especially above 4000 feet.
- Specific locations mentioned include:
- Sierra Nevada Mountains
- White Mountains
- Santa Monica Mountains
- San Bernardino Mountains
- Palomar Mountain in San Diego County
- Ring Mountain preserve
- Horse Mountain, Humboldt County
- Spring Mountain National Recreation Area
- The text also suggests lichens are common from the North to the South poles and "desert floors to rocky mountain tops".
Ecological Role
- Lichens contribute to California ecosystems.
Morphological Characteristics
- The pendent fruticose lichen, California Spanish moss (Ramalina), is mentioned.
- Descriptions include "colorful crustose lichens" in the Sierra Nevada, and "shiny dark reddish brown" to black mountain cobblestone lichen (Acarospora elevata).
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Mule deer in California consume lichens that grow on oaks.
- Some lichens are lichenicolous, acting as fungal parasites on other lichens, such as Staurothele species.
Quirky Facts
- Lace lichen became the California State Lichen on January 1, 2016, joining other state symbols like the grizzly bear, poppy, and quail.
Further Resources
- California Lichen Society: PO Box 472, Fairfax, CA.
- University of California at Riverside, Herbarium, Department of Botany & Plant Sciences.
- Bulletin of the California Lichen Society
- Jnal of California and Great Basin Anthropology