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lichenothelia lichen

Scientific Name: Lichenothelia

Family: Lichenotheliaceae

Category: Lichen

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Lichenothelia: An Overview

The genus Lichenothelia encompasses a fascinating group of fungi, often found in association with algae, forming what are sometimes described as "border-line lichens." This means they exhibit characteristics of both fungi and lichens, blurring the lines between these classifications.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Lichenothelia D. Hawksw.
  • Common Name: Lichenothelia Lichen
  • Kingdom: Fungi (inferred from the provided text)
  • Family: Lichenotheliaceae
  • Rank: Genus
  • Synonyms: Polycoccum opulentum auct. brit. (for Lichenothelia renobalesiana); Microthelia scopularia (for Lichenothelia scopularia)

Distribution and Habitat

Lichenothelia species are widespread and can be found in various locations, including:

  • Antarctica and South Georgia (Lichenothelia antarctica)
  • England
  • Iran (Lichenothelia ilamensis)
  • North Carolina, USA
  • Southern California Chaparral
  • Caucasus, Daghestan, Russia (Lichenothelia renobalesiana)

They often grow on rocks, specifically granite, forming rock communities and thriving in calcareous environments.

Ecological Role

Lichenothelia species can be saxicolous (growing on rocks) and lichenicolous (growing on other lichens). Their presence and diversity can be influenced by factors such as air pollution levels.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Growth Habit: Lichenous
  • Characterized by fertile stromata and pycnidia
  • Some species grow on and within other organisms.
  • Some species have melanised fungi with algae.

Some species, like Lichenothelia ilamensis, are distinguished by a black areolate.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Forms associations with algae.
  • Can be lichenicolous, growing on other lichens like Lichenostigma saxicola.
  • Interacts with microcolonial fungi in granite rock environments.

Further Information

  • Encyclopedia of Life
  • Wikipedia
  • British Lichen Society
  • USDA
  • EOL
  • www.flickr.com/photos/29750062@N06/collections/
  • http://www.researchgate.net/