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Diploicia canescens

Diploicia canescens, also known as Pleated White, is a species of lichenized fungus. It's often found in temperate regions and is recognizable by its appearance.

Considerations for Pets

• This lichen can grow on glass (vitricolous), a surface that might be accessible to some pets.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Diploicia canescens (Dicks.) A. Massal.
• Synonyms:
  • Diploicia llanoi (C.W. Dodge) C.W. Dodge
  • Diploicia africana (Tuck. )
• Family: Caliciaceae
• Genus: Diploicia
• Rank: Genus

Distribution and Habitat

• Diploicia canescens has a widespread distribution, particularly in temperate regions.
• It has been observed in locations such as Dorset, Ireland, and Panshanger Park, Hertford.
• It has also been found in South Africa, Western Cape.
• It is known to occur in the Greater Sonoran Desert.
• It appears to thrive in nutrient-rich areas, sheltered from direct rain.

Morphological Characteristics

• The thallus (body) of Diploicia canescens is typically white to bluish-white or grey-white, appearing green when damp.
• It exhibits a placodioid growth form, characterized by radiating lobules.
• The surface is thickly pruinose (covered in a powdery bloom).
• Greyish-cream soralia (structures for asexual reproduction) are present.
• It is a crustaceous lichen and may form rosettes up to 5cm across.
• Some variations have grey-yellowish greenish lobes and soredia.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• It can be mistaken for other lichens like Dirinaria or Physcia.
• It may grow alongside other lichens, such as Lecanora campestris, Xanthoria parietina, and Rhizocarpon geographicum.
• The genus Endohyalina shares diagnostic characters with Diploicia, except for thalline growth form and lichenicolous habit.
• It can act as a biosorbent for the removal of nickel from aqueous solution.

Quirky Facts

• Diploicia canescens has been found growing on glass, making it a "vitricolous" lichen.

Chemical Properties and Uses

• Diploicia canescens produces photoprotective compounds that absorb UV-A and UV-B radiation.
• A new diphenyl ether, along with other compounds, has been isolated from this lichen.
• Some of its constituents have shown cytotoxic activity.

Ecological Role

• Diploicia canescens is sensitive to environmental pollution and can be used as a bioindicator.

Further Information

• British Lichen Society - BLS Lichen Database
• Nordic Lichen Flora
• Lichen Flora of the Antarctic continent and adjacent islands