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dot lichen

Scientific Name: Arthonia impallens

Family: Arthoniaceae

Category: Lichen

Growth: Lichenous

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Dot Lichen

The term "Dot Lichen" is a common name applied to lichens belonging to the genera Arthonia or Micarea. "Dotted lichens" are sometimes associated with the genus Bacidia. It's important to note that the same common name can sometimes refer to both a lichen genus and a specific lichen species.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some lichens grow on tree bark, which dogs might encounter in gardens or parks.
  • Lichens, including dot lichens, may grow on rocks.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Group: Lichen
  • Family: Arthoniaceae (for Arthonia and related genera)
  • Genera Commonly Referred to as Dot Lichen: Arthonia, Micarea, and sometimes Bacidia.
  • Synonyms/Alternative Names: Several species are listed with various synonyms (e.g., Bacidia chlorococca for Scoliciosporum chlorococcum).
  • Examples of Named Species:
    • Arthonia arthonioides - Dot Lichen
    • Arthonia asteriscus - Dot Lichen
    • Dibaeis absoluta - Pink Dot Lichen
    • Leptorhaphis epidermidis - Birchbark Dot Lichen
    • Micarea erratica - Erratic Dot Lichen
    • Mycobilimbia pilularis - Dot Lichen

Distribution and Habitat

  • Dot lichens can be found in a variety of locations, including New Orleans (Arthonia species), Mount Rainier National Park, and Bahia Honda Key, Florida.
  • They grow on various surfaces, such as tree bark (e.g., palm trees), rocks, and even soil.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Dot lichens are often described as growing in small "dots."
  • Mycobilimbia pilularis has a grayish green thallus and yellowy brown apothecia.
  • Dibaeis absoluta (Pink Dot Lichen) has pink apothecia born on short stalks.

Quirky Facts

  • The headline "I'm lichen it!" was spotted on an article in the Times about eating oak moss.

Further Information

  • Encyclopedia of Life: Mentions Birchbark Dot Lichen (Leptorhaphis).
  • Catalogue of Life: Used as a name source for Micarea.
  • USDA: Referenced in connection to Arthonia glebosa.
  • Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of Natural History: Source of a photo of Arthonia exilis.
  • ResearchGate: Contains a Conservation Assessment for Pink Dot Lichen (Dibaeis absoluta).