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cracked lichen
Scientific Name: Acarospora badiofusca
Family: Acarosporaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
Cracked Lichen (Various Acarospora Species)
The term "cracked lichen" refers to various lichen species within the Acarospora genus, often characterized by their appearance resembling cracked cobblestones or old, cracked paint. Several species are referred to by this common name, including Acarospora aeruginosa, Acarospora albomarginata, Acarospora gallica, Acarospora impressula, Acarospora schleicheri, Acarospora socialis, and possibly others.
It is important to note that "cracked lichen" is a common name, and refers to several species of lichen, not just one. Therefore, some information presented might not apply to all "cracked lichen".
Considerations for Pets
- Lichens often grow on rocks, which may present a physical hazard if ingested, depending on their size and composition.
Considerations for Children
- Lichens often grow on rocks, which may present a physical hazard if ingested, depending on their size and composition.
- The cracked or areolate structure of the thallus (lichen body) might be fragile and prone to breaking, potentially creating small pieces.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Kingdom: Fungi
- Phylum: Ascomycota
- Class: Lecanoromycetes
- Order: Agyriales
- Family: Acarosporaceae
- Genus: Acarospora
- Examples of Species (with common name):
- Acarospora aeruginosa Hasse - Cracked Lichen
- Acarospora albomarginata (Herre) Salisb. - Cracked Lichen
- Acarospora gallica - Gallic Cracked Lichen
- Acarospora schleicheri - Schleicher's Cracked Lichen
Distribution and Habitat
- Cracked lichens are found in various regions, including inhospitable areas where they grow very slowly on rocks.
- Specific locations mentioned include Britain, Ireland, Idaho, Planalto das Cezaredas in Portugal, and the Rocky Mountains.
Morphological Characteristics
- Cracked lichens are crustose, meaning they form a crust-like layer on their substrate.
- The thallus (lichen body) is typically cracked-areolate, featuring a surface divided into small, separated areas.
- The color can vary, with some species exhibiting bright yellow areoles.
- The apothecia (fruiting bodies) are often small and immersed within the areoles.
Ecological Role
- Lichens contribute to the weathering and breakdown of rocks.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Cracked lichens grow on various surfaces, including rocks, granite, sandstone cliffs, and even tree bark.
- Other organisms, such as mosses and fungi, may co-exist with lichens on these surfaces.
Quirky Facts
- It can take decades for cracked lichens to grow over a single rock, highlighting their slow growth rate.
- The appearance of cracked lichens is said to resemble a cobblestone road or cracked old paint.