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dot lichen

Scientific Name: Arthonia subminutissima

Family: Arthoniaceae

Category: Lichen

Growth: Lichenous

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Dot Lichen: A Diverse Group of Lichens

The term "Dot Lichen" is a common name applied to lichens belonging to the genera Arthonia or Micarea. "Dotted lichens" may also refer to lichens in the genus Bacidia. This common name reflects the appearance of these lichens, often characterized by small, dot-like structures.

Considerations for Pets

  • Lichens, including Dot Lichens, can grow on various surfaces, including tree bark and rocks. While typically not considered highly toxic, ingestion might cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets.
  • Some lichen species grow in small dots on rocks and bark.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Genera: Arthonia, Micarea, Bacidia
  • Family: Arthoniaceae (for some Dot Lichens)
  • Examples of Species
    • Arthonia arthonioides - Dot Lichen
    • Arthonia asteriscus - Dot Lichen
    • Arthonia exilis
    • Arthonia glebosa - Dot Lichen
    • Arthonia dispersa - Dispersed Dot Lichen
    • Arthonia tuckermaniana - Tuckerman's Dot Lichen
    • Micarea nitschkeana - Nitschke's Dot Lichen
    • Scoliciosporum chlorococcum - City Dot Lichen (Synonym: Bacidia chlorococca)
    • Micarea erratica - Erratic Dot Lichen
    • Bacidia rubella - Frosty-rimmed Dot Lichen
    • Dibaeis absoluta - Pink Dot Lichen
    • Leptorhaphis epidermidis - Birchbark Dot Lichen
    • Leptorhaphis atomaria - Birchbark Dot Lichen
    • Micarea globulosella - Globe Dot Lichen

Distribution and Habitat

  • Dot Lichens are found in various locations, including Mount Rainier National Park, Florida, and the New Orleans area.
  • They can grow on rocks, tree bark (including palm trees and birch bark), and other surfaces.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Dot Lichens exhibit a crustose growth form, often appearing as small dots or patches on their substrate.
  • Some species, like Mycobilimbia pilularis, have a grayish-green thallus and yellowy-brown apothecia (fruiting bodies).
  • Pink Dot Lichen (Dibaeis absoluta) has pink apothecia born on very short stalks.
  • Speckled Shield Lichens, Punctelia bolliana, are grey foliose lichens with tiny white dots and lobules, but no isida or soredia.

Quirky Facts

  • Some lichens are referred to as 'Firedot' lichens, such as Granite Firedot Lichen and Sulfur Firedot Lichen.
  • One article headline about eating oak moss states: &#39I&#39m lichen it!&#39

Resources and Further Information

  • Encyclopedia of Life
  • Catalogue of Life
  • USDA Plant Database
  • Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of Natural History, Department of Botany
  • ResearchGate