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Epilichen scabrosus (Epilichen Lichen)

Epilichen scabrosus, commonly known as Epilichen Lichen, is a fascinating lichen species belonging to the Rhizocarpaceae family.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Epilichen scabrosus (Ach.) Clem. ex Hafellner
• Common Name: Epilichen Lichen
• Family: Rhizocarpaceae
• Rank: Species
• Synonyms: Buellia scabrosa, Catillaria scabrosa (Ach.) Boistel

Life Habit and Morphology

• Epilichen scabrosus is lichenicolous, lichenized, or parasymbiotic. This means it can grow on or in other lichens, form a symbiotic relationship with algae or cyanobacteria to create a lichen body, or live as a parasite.
• The thallus (lichen body) of Epilichen scabrosus is crustose, forming small patches on the host thallus. It can be episubstratal (on the surface) or squamulose (scale-like).
• The upper surface of the thallus is often yellowish in color.

Distribution

• Epilichen scabrosus has a wide distribution, including Canada, Great Britain, Ireland, Spain, and Romania.
• It is also found in various regions across the U.S.
• Some species of Epilichen, like Epilichen stellatus, have been found in specific locations like the Chukotka peninsula and Arizona.

Ecology

• Epilichen scabrosus is often found growing on other lichens such as Baeomyces rufus, often in specific environments like old lead mines.
• It can also be found on saxicolous (rock-dwelling) lichens.

Quirky Facts

• Some species of Epilichen are associated with heavy metal outcrops, indicating a potential tolerance or affinity for such environments.

Resources and Further Information

• USDA Plants Database
• GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility)
• Arizona State University Lichen Herbarium (http://nhc.asu.edu/lichens/)
• Hawksworth, D.L. (1992). The Lichen Flora of Great Britain and Ireland. London: Natural History.
• Lumbsch TH, Huhndorf SM. (December 2007).