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Melaspilea: A Lichenous Enigma

Melaspilea, often referred to by the common name "melaspilea lichen," represents a fascinating group of lichens within the family Melaspileaceae. These organisms, which are a symbiotic partnership between a fungus and an alga or cyanobacterium, exhibit a variety of forms and ecological roles.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Melaspilea
• Common Name: melaspilea lichen
• Family: Melaspileaceae
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Phylum: Lichens
• Class: Arthoniomycetes
• Order: Incertae sedis
• Synonyms:
  • Hazlinszkya Krb.
  • Melanographa Mll. Arg.
  • Melaspileella (P. Karst.) Vain.
  • Melaspileomyces Cif.

Distribution and Habitat

Melaspilea species can be found in various regions across the globe, including:

• USA (including southeastern USA)
• Canada
• Australia
• Dorset (UK)
• Turkey
• Armenia
• Panama
• Scottish native pinewoods in the British Isles (for Melaspilea lentiginosula)

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

Melaspilea are generally crustose lichens, meaning they form a crust-like layer on their substrate. Some species have a thallus (the main body of the lichen) that is immersed in the host lichen.

• Thallus can be immersed in the host lichen.
• Apothecia (fruiting bodies) are often numerous and scattered over the thallus.

Ecological Role

Some Melaspilea species are lichenicolous, meaning they live on other lichens, sometimes parasitizing them. Specifically, Melaspilea lentiginosa is a lichenicolous lichen, and veteran trees also contribute to its survival.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Some Melaspilea species are lichenicolous, parasitizing other lichens.
• Associated with other lichens such as Pyrenula nitida, Thelopsis rubella and Melaspilea lentiginosa

Quirky Facts

• Melaspilea lentiginosula is considered an endemic lichen species confined to Scottish native pinewoods in the British Isles.