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Witch's Hair Lichen (Alectoria spp.)

The name "witch's hair" is a common name often applied to various species within the Alectoria genus, including Alectoria sarmentosa and Alectoria vancouverensis.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Genus: Alectoria
• Family: Alectoriaceae
• Kingdom: Fungi (Lichens are a symbiotic association of a fungus and algae)
• Suborder: Lecanorineae
• Synonyms: Various, depending on the specific Alectoria species (e.g., Alectoria ochroleuca var. rigida)

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Common witch's hair lichen (Alectoria sarmentosa) is a hanging hair lichen, typically 15-30 cm long.
• It is pale green and intricately branched.
• It lacks a central strand and soredia.
• Alectoria lichens are fruticose (brush-like) and can be pendulous.

Distribution and Habitat

• Alectoria sarmentosa is found on Douglas fir trees in the Pacific Northwest and on western hemlock near Juneau, Alaska.
• Alectoria vancouverensis has been observed on vine maples (Acer circinatum).
• It can be found hanging from tree branches in arboreal environments.

Ecological Role

• Common witch's hair is a sensitive species, with growth rates being impacted by environmental factors.
• It serves as a food source for some animals.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Lichens, including witch's hair, are a symbiotic association between a fungus and algae. The alga gives the lichen its greenish color.

Quirky Facts

• The name "witch's hair" might evoke images of hairy old men, but it actually refers to these green, hair-like lichens.
• While sometimes confused with moss, lichens are not plants. They are a unique partnership between a fungus and algae.

Further Information

• Encyclopedia of Life: Provides articles about the Common Witch's Hair Lichen (Alectoria sarmentosa).