SafePlants

Littlelobed Lichen

This page provides information about the Littlelobed Lichen, a fascinating type of lichen.

Scientific and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Massalongia (with species including Massalongia carnosa and Massalongia microphylliza)
• Common Name: Littlelobed Lichen
• Other Common Names: Little-lobed Lichen, Moss Liver Lichen, Rockmoss rosette lichen

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Kingdom: Fungi (based on some sources) or Plantae (based on other sources) - Note that the classification of lichens can be complex.
• Family: Peltigeraceae
• Rank: Species
• Synonyms: The text refers to variations in nomenclature and taxonomic status, indicating some complexity in the classification of this lichen.
• Massalongia carnosa (Dicks.) Krb.
• Massalongia microphylliza (Nyl. ex Hasse) Henssen

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Growth Habit: Lichenous
• Description: Some species have a "little lobed" thallus, which can reach several centimeters in diameter. Some sources describe having small squamules or being rounded at the apex. Some descriptions mention that it is blue-green and sorediate with a crustose thallus.

Distribution and Habitat

• Found in various locations, including Australia, British and Irish species, and the Pacific Northwest region of British Columbia.
• Grows on rocks (saxicolous) and potentially soil.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Lichens engage in symbiosis, including with other lichens such as *Coccocarpia*. The switch and cephalodia emancipation act as evolutionary drivers in the lichen symbiosis.

Resources and Further Information

• Garden Guides
• Australian New Crops Web Site
• Plantilla:Plantae Mundi/Fuentes/CLFP
• Lichens: An illustrated guide to the British and Irish species
• The Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia Lichen Herbarium of James C.
• ITIS (Integrated Taxonomic Information System)