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Asahina's cracked lichen
Scientific Name: Acarospora asahinae
Family: Acarosporaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
Asahina's Cracked Lichen (Acarospora asahinae)
Dive into the fascinating world of Asahina's Cracked Lichen, a unique lichen species with a distinctive appearance and intriguing history. Learn about its classification, distribution, and ecological role.
Considerations for Pets and Children
- Physical Characteristics: This lichen is described as "cracked," which suggests a brittle texture that might break into small pieces.
- Habitat: Lichens can be found on rocks, soil, and trees. The text mentions their presence in cracks, which could be gutterings or footpaths, suggesting potential accessibility.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Acarospora asahinae H. Magn.
- Common Name: Asahina's Cracked Lichen
- Rank: Species
- Family: Acarosporaceae
- Synonyms: Cracked Lichen (used for multiple species in the genus Acarospora)
Distribution and Habitat
- Found in North America, including locations like Alaska and California (volcanic rock).
- Observed in British Columbia.
- Mentioned in the context of the Black Hills region.
- Grows on soil, rocks, and in cracks of gutterings and footpaths.
Morphological Characteristics
- The lichen exhibits a "cracked" appearance.
- Older lobes may be cracked.
- Thallus can be densely white pruinose on soil or in rock cracks.
Quirky Facts
- The lichen's identification and study have benefited from Asahina's method, a microcrystallization technique and microchemical studies.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Lichens are symbiotic organisms, a combination of fungi and algae and/or cyanobacteria.
Further Information
- USDA Plants Database
- North American Lichen Checklist (Apr. 2008)
- Index of Fungi