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cracked lichen
Scientific Name: Acarospora hilaris
Family: Acarosporaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
Cracked Lichens: A Closer Look at the Genus Acarospora
Cracked lichens, often resembling cobblestone roads or cracked paint, belong to the genus Acarospora. This diverse group within the lichen family presents intriguing characteristics and ecological roles.
Considerations for Pets
- Physical Characteristics: Some descriptions mention the "cracked-areolate" thallus, which may present a rough or uneven surface.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Acarospora
- Common Names: Cracked lichen, Cobblestone lichen
- Family: Acarosporaceae
- Kingdom: Fungi
Distribution and Habitat
- Acarospora species are found in various locations, including the Rocky Mountains, Britain, Ireland, and Portugal (Planalto das Cezaredas).
- They often grow on rocks, such as granite, and can be found in desolate areas.
Morphological Characteristics
- The lichen thallus may consist of separate lumps that grow together, forming a continuous cracked surface.
- Some species have a "cracked-areolate" thallus.
- Some species, like Buellia subalbula, exhibit a white, cracked thallus that appears frosted.
- Some species, like Acarospora socialis, have different appearances under daylight and ultraviolet light.
Ecological Role
- Lichens slowly break down rocks through a process of surface erosion.
Species Examples
- Acarospora aeruginosa Hasse - Cracked Lichen
- Acarospora albomarginata (Herre) Salisb. - Cracked Lichen
- Acarospora arenosa Herre - Cracked Lichen
- Acarospora hilaris
- Acarospora impressula
- Acarospora nodulosa
- Acarospora schleicheri - Schleicher's Cracked Lichen
- Acarospora badiofusca
- Acarospora socialis
Further Information
- Mushroom Observer: http://mushroomobserver.org/