SafePlants

Lobaria: Lung Lichens and Their Kin

This group of lichens, encompassing species like Lobaria pulmonaria and Lobaria oregana, showcases fascinating symbiotic relationships and plays important ecological roles, particularly in forest ecosystems. Lichens are a symbiotic relationship of algae and fungi.

Considerations for Pets

• These lichens commonly grow on trees, potentially within reach of pets in gardens or forests.

Considerations for Children

• These lichens commonly grow on trees, potentially within reach of children in gardens or forests.

Scientific and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Several Lobaria species are mentioned, including Lobaria pulmonaria, Lobaria oregana, and Lobaria linita.
• Common Names: Tree lungwort, lung lichen, Oregon lung lichen, lettuce lichen, cabbage lung lichen, and lungwort are used.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Lobariaceae
• Synonym: Sticta oregana Tuck. is listed as a synonym for Lobaria oregana.

Distribution and Habitat

• These lichens are found in North American old-growth forests, particularly in the Pacific Northwest regions like Oregon and Washington.
• Specific locations mentioned include the Cascade Mountains, Siskiyou Mountains, and Coast Ranges of Oregon, as well as forests near Grants Pass, Oregon.

Ecological Role

• Lobaria oregana is identified as an important nitrogen-fixer in western forests.
• Their presence is linked to air quality, with some species being sensitive to air pollution.

Morphological Characteristics

• These are foliose lichens, meaning they have a leafy, lobed structure.
• Some species are described as large, while others are noted as being pale yellow-green.
• Lung lichens are sensitive to air pollution.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Lung lichens have a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and algae.
• They grow on trees like Douglas Fir.

Quirky Facts

• Lung lichens get their common name, "lung lichen," because of the pattern.

Further Information

• Oregon State University Press is mentioned as a publisher of information on Lobaria.
• Arctos School of herbal and Botanical Studies located in Portland, Oregon, offers information.