SafePlants

Cracked Lichen (Acarospora spp.)

Cracked lichens, scientifically known as Acarospora, are a diverse group of lichens recognized by their distinctive appearance resembling cobblestone roads or cracked paint.

Considerations for Pets

• Some descriptions mention a "cracked-areolate" thallus, suggesting the lichen's body may have a textured or uneven surface.

Considerations for Children

• Descriptions mention the lichen's body having a "cracked-areolate" thallus, suggesting the lichen's body may have a textured or uneven surface.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Acarospora (genus)
• Common Names: Cobblestone lichens, Cracked lichens
• Family: Acarosporaceae
• Kingdom: Fungi
• Examples of Species:
  • Acarospora aeruginosa Hasse
  • Acarospora albomarginata (Herre) Salisb.
  • Acarospora gallica
  • Acarospora schleicheri
  • Acarospora arenosa Herre
  • Acarospora impressula
  • Acarospora nodulosa
  • Acarospora socialis
  • Acarospora badiofusca

Distribution and Habitat

• Cracked lichens are found in various locations, including the Rocky Mountains, Britain, Ireland, Idaho, and Portugal (Planalto das Cezaredas).

Morphological Characteristics

• The lichen thallus (body) is often made up of separate lumps that may grow together, forming a continuous cracked surface.
• Some species exhibit a "cracked-areolate" thallus, where the crust cracks during growth.
• Some have a distinctive white, cracked thallus.
• Apothecia (fruiting bodies) are small, sometimes multiple per areole, and darker in color.

Ecological Role

• Lichens, including cracked lichens, can contribute to the breakdown of rocks, though this is a slow process.

Quirky Facts

• One type, "Narcotic lichen," is described as rare and only grows in desolate parts of the Rockies.

Further Information

• Mushroom Observer: http://mushroomobserver.org/