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Alectoria sarmentosa: Witch's Hair Lichen

Alectoria sarmentosa, commonly known as witch's hair lichen, is a fascinating example of a symbiotic relationship in nature. This name is often used to refer to various Alectoria species.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Alectoria sarmentosa (Ach.) Ach.
• Common Name: Witch's hair lichen (often shortened to witch's hair)
• Family: Alectoriaceae
• Kingdom: Fungi (though technically a lichen, which is a symbiotic association between a fungus and algae)
• Suborder: Lecanorineae

Distribution and Habitat

• Frequently found on Douglas fir trees in the Pacific Northwest.
• Observed on western hemlocks near Juneau, Alaska.
• Also found hanging from vine maples (Acer circinatum).
• Observed on stone walls in the Scilly Isles, England.

Morphological Characteristics

• A hanging hair lichen, typically 15-30 cm long.
• Pale green in color, resulting from the presence of green algae within the lichen structure.
• Intricately branched.
• Lacks a central strand.
• Does not have soredia (structures for asexual reproduction in lichens).
• Fruticose (brush-like) and often pendulous.

Ecological Role

• Lichens, including witch's hair, can provide browse for animals.
• Sensitive species, implying potential vulnerability to environmental changes.

Symbiotic Relationship

• Witch's hair lichen is a symbiotic association between a fungus and a green alga.
• The alga provides the greenish color to the lichen.

Quirky Facts

• While the name "witch's hair" might evoke images of hairy old men, it actually refers to the appearance of the lichen itself.

Further Information

• Encyclopedia of Life: Provides articles about the Common Witch's Hair Lichen (Alectoria sarmentosa).
• U.S. Forest Service: Source of photos and information about lichens in the Pacific Northwest.
• Australian Plant Names Index: Contains data on Alectoria nigricans, also known as Witch's Hair Lichen.