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sphinctrina lichen
Scientific Name: Sphinctrina tubiformis
Family: Sphinctrinaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
Sphinctrina Species: A Detailed Look
This page provides information about various species within the genus Sphinctrina, focusing on their classification, distribution, and ecological roles. Sphinctrina species are lichens, or lichenicolous fungi (fungi that parasitize lichens).
Considerations for Pets
- Several species of Sphinctrina are lichenicolous, meaning they are parasitic on other lichens. While the text doesn't describe direct toxicity to pets, the presence of parasitic fungi in an environment might be a consideration for owners of pets (like reptiles) that consume lichen.
Scientific Classification and Nomenclature
- Genus: Sphinctrina Fr., 1825
- Family: Sphinctrinaceae
- Order: Mycocaliciales
- Class: Eurotiomycetes
- Phylum: Lichens (informal classification)
- Taxonomic Status: Accepted
- Synonyms: Sphinctrina microcephala Nyl. (for Sphinctrina anglica)
The authority for Sphinctrina turbinata is (Pers.) De Not. (1846). The provided British Lichen Society (BLS) number for this species is 1261.
Species within the Genus
- Sphinctrina anglica Nyl., 1858 (English Puckered Pin)
- Sphinctrina benmargana
- Sphinctrina leucopoda Nyl.
- Sphinctrina paramerae
- Sphinctrina tubaeformis
- Sphinctrina tubiformis A. Massal. (Pin lichen)
- Sphinctrina turbinata (Pers.) De Not.
Distribution and Habitat
- Sphinctrina species are found in various locations, including the UK, Europe, Japan, and the Greater Sonoran Desert Region.
- Sphinctrina benmargana has been reported from the Netherlands Antilles, specifically Sint Eustatius.
- Sphinctrina leucopoda has been reported from Korea and its distribution in the UK is mapped by the NBN (data.nbn.org.uk).
Ecological Role
- Sphinctrina species are primarily parasitic or commensalistic on other lichens (lichenicolous).
- Sphinctrina anglica is a specialized parasite, often found on lichens of the genus Protoparmelia.
Morphological Characteristics
- Sphinctrina anglica has apothecia that are 0.2-0.4 mm tall, with a short stalk, and are black in color.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Sphinctrina turbinata has been observed growing on Pertusaria pertusa.
Quirky Facts
- Sphinctrina anglica is also known as the "English Puckered Pin," a name that reflects its stubble-like appearance.
Further Information
- Greater Sonoran Desert Lichen Flora
- Nordic Lichen Flora
- NBN (data.nbn.org.uk) - UK distribution maps
- Lichens of Great Britain or Ireland