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Ophioparma Lichens

This page provides information about lichens in the genus Ophioparma, including Ophioparma ventosa and Ophioparma lapponica. These are crustose lichens, meaning they form a crust-like layer on their substrate.

Scientific Classification

• Genus: Ophioparma
• Family: Ophioparmaceae
• Rank: Species
• Synonyms: Haematomma ventosum (for Ophioparma lapponica as previously classified), Haematomma lapponicum (synonym for Ophioparma lapponica)

Common Names

• Ophioparma ventosa: Alpine Bloodspot
• Ophioparma lapponica: Lapland Bloodspot Lichen, Ophioparma Lichen, Bloodstain Lichen

Morphological Characteristics

• The thallus of Ophioparma ventosa is described as a thick, areolate (divided into small areas), warted crust, varying in color from cream to yellow-grey (f. ventosa) or pale to dark grey (f. subfestiva).
• Apothecia (reproductive structures) are flat.

Distribution and Habitat

• Ophioparma ventosa has been observed in alpine regions, including Arunachal Pradesh, India, Glen Affric in Scotland, and Hintersee, Felbertal, Austria. It's also found in Washington State, Spokane County, Little Spokane River Natural Area.
• Ophioparma lapponica is found in North America and Lapland (Abisko National Park in Sweden).
• They are often found on rocks, including siliceous boulders and arcosic sandstone.

Quirky Facts

• Ophioparma ventosa is known as the "alpine bloodspot" lichen.
• The orange-brown apothecia of Ophioparma species can be very smooth to the touch.
• One observation notes a specimen of Ophioparma ventosa found at approximately 2000 meters.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Studies have focused on the chemical compounds, including minor pyranonaphthoquinones, isolated from the apothecia (fruiting bodies) of Ophioparma ventosa.

Further Information

• Greater Sonoran Desert Lichen Flora
• British Lichen Society - BLS Lichen Database
• WikiSpecies
• Lichens of North America (Brodo et al.)