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Boreal Felt Lichen: A Fuzzy Enigma

Explore the fascinating world of the Boreal Felt Lichen, a unique and endangered species with a captivating story. This "panda bear" of lichens offers a glimpse into the delicate balance of boreal ecosystems.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Erioderma pedicellatum
• Common Name: Boreal Felt Lichen

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Pannariaceae
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Note: Some texts may contain references to other felt lichens from different genera such as Peltigera, however, these are distinct from Erioderma pedicellatum.

Considerations for Pets

• The Boreal Felt Lichen has a fuzzy appearance.

Considerations for Children

• The Boreal Felt Lichen has a fuzzy appearance.

Distribution and Habitat

• The Boreal Felt Lichen is found in temperate and boreal northern regions.
• Specific locations include Newfoundland, Nova Scotia (eastern and southern shores), Norway, Sweden, and Kamchatka (Russia).
• It grows predominantly on the trunks of Balsam Fir (Abies balsamea), Black Spruce, White Spruce, and occasionally Red Maple trees.

Ecological Role

• The Boreal Felt Lichen is an epiphytic lichen, meaning it grows on other plants (specifically trees) without harming them.
• It is critically endangered, with populations declining due to air pollution and habitat loss.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• It is a medium-sized, foliose (leafy) lichen.
• The lichen is greenish when moist and grey when dry.
• It has a felt-like upper surface, hence the name "felt lichen".
• The thallus (body) grows on the branches and trunks of trees.

Quirky Facts

• The Boreal Felt Lichen is sometimes referred to as the "panda bear" of lichens due to 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