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cracked lichen
Scientific Name: Acarospora glaucocarpa
Family: Acarosporaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
Cracked Lichens: A Closer Look
The term "cracked lichen" refers to various species of lichens that exhibit a characteristic cracked or areolate appearance, resembling cobblestone roads or cracked paint. These lichens belong to the genus Acarospora and other related genera.
Considerations for Pets and Children
- The text mentions that some Acarospora species have a crust-like growth habit, which may create small, brittle fragments.
- The "cracked" surface of these lichens, while typically harmless, could present a minor ingestion hazard for curious pets or children.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Common Name: Cracked Lichen, Cobblestone Lichen
- Genus: Acarospora
- Family: Acarosporaceae
- Kingdom: Fungi (based on Acarospora schleicheri taxonomy)
Several species within the Acarospora genus are referred to as "cracked lichens," including:
- Acarospora aeruginosa Hasse
- Acarospora albomarginata (Herre) Salisb.
- Acarospora arenosa Herre
- Acarospora badiofusca
- Acarospora gallica
- Acarospora impressula
- Acarospora nodulosa
- Acarospora schleicheri
- Acarospora socialis
Distribution and Habitat
- Cracked lichens are found in various regions, including the Rocky Mountains (for Narcotic Lichen), Britain, Ireland, and Planalto das Cezaredas, Portugal.
- They often grow on rocks, such as granite and sandstone, and can be found on cliffs and in desolate areas.
Morphological Characteristics
- Cracked lichens typically form a crust-like thallus, which can be continuous or cracked-areolate.
- The thallus may start as separate lumps that eventually merge, creating the characteristic cracked surface.
- Some species, like Buellia subalbula, have a white, cracked thallus that appears slightly frosted.
- Acarospora species can exhibit angular, bright yellow aeroles, with small apothecia that are darker and immersed in the aeroles.
Ecological Role
- Lichens, including cracked lichens, play a role in the slow breakdown of rocks through biological weathering.
- They can also colonize various surfaces, including bark, wood, and soil.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Cracked lichens may provide a substrate for other organisms, such as mosses and fungi.
- The text notes lichen growing on trees with moss, suggesting it can coexist alongside various plant species.
Further Information
- Catalogue of Life: 2012 Annual Checklist
- Mushroom Observer (mushroomobserver.org)