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map lichen
Scientific Name: Rhizocarpon anaperum
Family: Rhizocarpaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
Map Lichen (Rhizocarpon geographicum)
The map lichen, scientifically known as Rhizocarpon geographicum, is a distinctive lichen species easily recognized by its map-like appearance on rocks.
Considerations for Pets
- This lichen grows on rocks and may be encountered during outdoor activities.
Considerations for Children
- This lichen grows on rocks and may be encountered during outdoor activities.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Rhizocarpon geographicum
- Common Name: Map Lichen
- Family: Rhizocarpaceae
- Rhizocarpon is a lichenized genus of fungi.
- Synonym: Lecidea geographica (historical)
Distribution and Habitat
- This lichen thrives on rocks, particularly in mountainous regions with low air pollution.
- It has been observed in various locations, including the Rocky Mountains, Grand Teton National Park, Acadia National Park in Maine, Mt. Monadnock in New Hampshire, Victoria Island in Nunavut, Arctic Canada, Iceland, and Neuschonau, Germany.
- Specimens have also been found in Ireland, specifically on the Old Kenmare/Killarney Road, Co.
Morphological Characteristics
- Each lichen forms a flat patch on the rock surface.
- The patches are typically bordered by black, spore-containing lines, giving the appearance of borders on a map.
- It is a crustose lichen, meaning it forms a crust-like layer tightly adhered to the substrate.
- The thallus (the main body of the lichen) is typically yellow-green to bright yellow.
Ecological Role
- Lichens are often used as bioindicators of air quality, with their diversity reflecting environmental conditions.
- Lichen diversity, including species like Rhizocarpon geographicum, is used as an indicator of environmental quality, particularly air pollution levels.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Lichens are symbiotic organisms, formed by a fungus and an alga that mutually benefit one another.
- Rhizocarpon geographicum can be found growing alongside other crustose lichens such as Aspicilia and Dimelaena, as well as brain lichen (Diploicia canescens).
Quirky Facts
- Map lichens are known for their slow growth rates and can live for thousands of years.
Further Information
- BLS Database
- APHOTOFUNGI - Photographic Stock Library
- NRCS Plants Database