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felt lichen

Scientific Name: Peltigera aphthosa

Family: Peltigeraceae

Category: Lichen

Growth: Lichenous

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Boreal Felt Lichen (Erioderma pedicellatum)

The boreal felt lichen, scientifically known as Erioderma pedicellatum, is a fascinating and rare lichen species. It's often referred to as the "panda bear" of lichens due to its extreme rarity.

Considerations for Pets

  • This lichen is described as having a "fuzzy appearance."

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Erioderma pedicellatum
  • Common Name: Boreal felt lichen
  • Family: Pannariaceae
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species
  • Synonyms: Although not direct synonyms, other felt lichens such as Peltigera praetextata are mentioned in the text, showing that felt lichen is a descriptive grouping.

Distribution and Habitat

  • The boreal felt lichen has a scattered distribution across the globe.
  • It's found in eastern Canada, including Newfoundland and Nova Scotia. Specifically, at least nine locations are known along the eastern and southern shores of Nova Scotia.
  • It also occurs in Norway, Sweden, and historically in other parts of Europe where it has declined.
  • An Asiatic population was discovered in 2009 in the primeval oceanic spruce forests of the Kronotsky Nature Reserve, Kamchatka, Russia.
  • In Newfoundland, it predominantly grows on the trunks of Balsam Fir (Abies balsamea) and occasionally on Black Spruce (Picea mariana). In other areas, it can also be found on White Spruce or, very rarely, Red Maple trees.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Erioderma pedicellatum is a medium-sized, foliose (leafy) lichen.
  • It is an epiphytic lichen, meaning it grows on the surface of trees.
  • When moist, it appears greenish; when dry, it is grey.
  • The upper surface has a felt-like texture.

Ecological Role

  • The boreal felt lichen is a sensitive species and is globally in decline.
  • Its decline is attributed to factors such as air pollution and habitat loss.
  • It is considered critically endangered by the IUCN.

Quirky Facts

  • It is referred to as the "panda bear" of lichens because of its extreme rarity.

Further Information

  • Encyclopedia of Life
  • IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
  • Government of Canada's Habitat Stewardship Program for Species at Risk
  • Newfoundland & Labrador Species at Risk program