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peltula lichen

Scientific Name: Peltula obscurans var. deserticola

Family: Peltulaceae

Category: Lichen

Growth: Lichenous

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Peltula Lichen

Peltula is a genus of squamulose lichens, ranging in color from dark brown to olive or dark gray. These lichens can be either saxicolous, meaning they grow on rocks, or terricolous, indicating growth on soil. This genus contains approximately 15 species and are commonly referred to as Peltula Lichen.

Considerations for Pets

  • Peltula lichens may grow on rocks or soil in areas accessible to pets.

Considerations for Children

  • Peltula lichens may grow on rocks or soil in areas accessible to children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Kingdom: Fungi (as Peltula clavata belongs to this kingdom)
  • Family: Peltulaceae
  • Rank: Genus
  • Some species and synonyms include:
    • Peltula euploca (Ach.) Poelt ex Ozenda &amp Clauzade
    • Peltula radicata (Ach.) Nyl.
    • Peltula bolanderi (Tuck.) Wetmore
    • Peltula obscurans (Nyl.) Gyeln.
    • Peltula clavata
    • Peltula africana
    • Peltula auriculata
    • Synonym: &#8801Dermatocarpon euplocum (Ach.) A.L. Sm.
    • Synonym: &#8801Lichen euplocus Ach.

Common Names

  • Peltula Lichen
  • Rock Olive Lichen
  • Bolander's peltula lichen

Distribution and Habitat

  • Peltula lichens are found in various locations, including Australia, the arid regions, and the Arizona Sonoran Desert.
  • They can be found in soil crusts and on rock surfaces.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Peltula lichens are described as small, squamulose lichens.
  • Peltula euploca is noted as being small, foliose, stratified, and up to 1 (-1.5) cm wide.
  • The soredia of Peltula euploca can be bluish, grayish, olive, or blackish.
  • Some species have flattened to erect, rather round lobes.

Ecological Role

  • Peltula lichens contribute to lichen-dominated biological soil crusts (BSCs).
  • They can be associated with green algal or cyanobacterial symbionts.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Peltula lichens engage in symbiosis with algae, forming a lichenous structure.
  • They can be found in association with mosses in soil crusts.

Resources and Further Information

  • Brodo, I.M., Sharnoff, S.D. and Sharnoff, S. (2001) Lichens of North America. Yale University Press.
  • California Lichen Society
  • Catalogue of Life: 2012 Annual Checklist