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strigula lichen

Scientific Name: Strigula nitidula

Family: Strigulaceae

Category: Lichen

Growth: Lichenous

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Strigula Lichen

Strigula is a genus of lichen-forming fungi. These fascinating organisms represent a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and an alga. Strigula lichens are part of the Plants (or Plantae) Kingdom, according to Garden Guides.

Considerations for Pets

  • Strigula lichens can grow on the leaves of plants, such as magnolia.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Strigula Fries
  • Family: Strigulaceae
  • Kingdom: Plants (Plantae)
  • Division: Ascomycota
  • Synonyms/Alternative Names: Arthopyrenia affinis auct. N. Amer. (for Strigula jamesii)

Common Names

  • Strigula Lichen
  • American Strigula Lichen (for Strigula americana)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Strigula species are found in various locations, including:
    • New Zealand
    • Dorset
    • Near Natchez, Mississippi (on Magnolia leaves)
    • Madeira and Gomera
    • Taiwan
    • SE Australia
    • Europe and Macaronesia
    • Fakahatchee Strand
  • Some species, like Strigula macaronesica, are foliicolous, meaning they grow on leaves.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Strigula macaronesica has an almost linear thallus (the main body of the lichen).

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Strigula represents a symbiotic association between algae and fungi.
  • Older algal colonies may become colonized (or lichenized) by a fungus such as Strigula.
  • Strigula elegans has been observed foliicolous on Magnolia grandiflora.

Quirky Facts

  • An astonishing 432 species of lichen have been documented within one square kilometer at the Fakahatchee Strand.

Resources and Further Information

  • British Lichen Society
  • Florida Division of Plant Industry
  • Catalogue of Strigulaceae