SafePlants

Rimmed Lichen

This page provides information about various lichens referred to as "rimmed lichens," including details about their scientific classification, distribution, and other relevant characteristics.

Scientific Names and Common Names

• The scientific name Aspicilia reptans corresponds to the common name Rimmed Lichen.
• Aspicilia calcarea is also known as Calcareous Rimmed Lichen.
• Other lichens with "rimmed" in their common name include Rimmed Cobblestone Lichen (Acarospora glaucocarpa), Rimmed Navel Lichens (Rhizoplaca), White Rimmed Lichen (Aspicilia albomarginata), Old Wood Rimmed Lichen (Lecanactis salicina), Gray-rimmed Firedot Lichen (Caloplaca cerina), Rimmed Shingle Lichen (Fuscopannaria leucosticta), and Rimmed Wart Lichen (Pertusaria velata).

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Hymeneliaceae
• Genus: Aspicilia
• Synonyms: For Aspicilia reptans, synonyms include Lecanora reptans and Lecanora ryrkaipiae.

Distribution and Habitat

• Aspicilia calcarea (Calcareous Rimmed Lichen) can be found on limestone rock.
• Various rimmed lichens are observed in locations such as the valley of the Dry Frio River, Sagehen Creek Basin (California), Ireland, and France (Pyrenees, Western France, Olonne-sur-Mer).
• Rimmed navel lichen has been observed on rocks atop Lookout Mountain in Ochoco National Forest.

Morphological Characteristics

• Crustose lichens often have a distinct rim surrounding their cup-shaped apothecia (fruiting bodies).

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Lichens, in general, are a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and either green algae, blue-green algae, or a combination of both.
• Wirework cloches, sometimes copper-rimmed, are used to protect plants from deer, rabbits, squirrels, and birds.

Further Information

• More information can be found on MO (likely Missouri Botanical Garden), ToL (Tree of Life Web Project), BHL (Biodiversity Heritage Library), and WikiSpecies.
• The Lichen Flora of the Greater Sonoran Desert Region is a useful resource.