SafePlants

Mycoblastus alpinus - Alpine Blood Lichen

Mycoblastus alpinus, commonly known as Alpine Blood Lichen, is a fascinating lichen species found in various alpine regions.

Considerations for Pets

• As a lichen, it grows on rocks and trees, and could potentially be encountered by pets outdoors.

Considerations for Children

• Likely found outdoors on rocks and trees in alpine environments.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Mycoblastus alpinus (Fr.) Th. Fr. ex Hellb.
• Common Name: Alpine Blood Lichen
• Family: Mycoblastaceae
• Rank: Species
• Synonyms: Lecidea sanguinaria var. alpina Fr., Mycoblastus alpinus (Fr.) Kernst.
• Related ITIS Name: Mycoblastus alpinus (Fr.) Hellb. (TSN 190545)

Distribution and Habitat

• This lichen is a rare alpine species.
• Specifically found in the Scottish Highlands.
• Common to the boreal forest and arctic-alpine tundra.
• Also referenced in Eastern Canada (NL, LB, PQ)

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Grows in a lichenous habit.
• The body of the lichen, composed of mycelia, is called a thallus.
• Crustose lichen.

Ecological Role

• Lichens are important in many alpine areas.
• Lichens flourish under extreme conditions.
• Lichens are dual organisms.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Lichens can be a food source for certain insects, such as tree and giant weta.
• Lichens exist in a symbiotic relationship.

Quirky Facts

• The name "Blood Lichen" comes from the presence of red pigments in some species, as well as its use in calculating the age of glacial moraine surfaces using Rhizocarpon geographicum by measuring the diameter of the lichen.
• Lichens are described as “dual organisms”.

Further Information

• LIAS
• NatureWatch NZ
• Garden Guides
• MyTreeDB
• Australian New Crops Web Site
• Plantilla:Plantae Mundi/Fuentes/CLFP
• Otago Regional Herbarium (OTA)