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globe ball lichen
Scientific Name: Sphaerophorus globosus var. gracilis
Family: Sphaerophoraceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
Globe Ball Lichen (Sphaerophorus globosus)
The Globe Ball Lichen, scientifically known as Sphaerophorus globosus, is a fascinating lichen species with a wide distribution and unique ecological role.
Considerations for Pets and Children
- This lichen is often used in terrariums and may be found in homes.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Sphaerophorus globosus (Huds.) Vain.
- Rank: Species
- Family: Sphaerophoraceae
- Synonyms: Sphaerophorus globosus (Hudson) Vainio, Sphaerophorus globosus var. gracilis
- Common Names: Globe Ball Lichen, Coral Lichen, Northern Coral Lichen, Tuckermann's Ball-bearing Lichen, Ball-headed Coral Lichen, Clustered Coral, Common Christmas-tree
Distribution and Habitat
- The Globe Ball Lichen is found in various regions, including the Cascade Mountains of Oregon and Washington.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- It is a lichenous organism, meaning it forms a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and algae.
- Soredia, little balls of algae wrapped in threads of fungus, emerge from the lichen.
- The lichen grows in a lichenous growth habit.
Quirky Facts
- Lichens are thought to be among the oldest living things on Earth.
- Lichen is named after the ever-changing color of the creeping algae.