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astrothelium lichen

Scientific Name: Astrothelium versicolor

Family: Trypetheliaceae

Category: Lichen

Growth: Lichenous

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Astrothelium Lichen

This page provides information about lichens in the genus Astrothelium.

Considerations for Pets

  • Astrothelium lichens, like many lichens, can be found on trees and rocks in gardens and natural areas.

Considerations for Children

  • As lichens, Astrothelium may grow in areas frequented by children.

Common Names

  • Astrothelium Lichen
  • Cinnamon Astrothelium Lichen
  • Speckled Wart Lichens

Scientific Names and Taxonomy

  • Accepted Scientific Name: Astrothelium (genus)
  • Rank: Genus
  • Family: Trypetheliaceae
  • Informal Taxonomy: Fungi/Lichens - Lichens
  • Synonyms:
    • Astrothelium ochrothelium Mll. Arg.
    • Pyrenastrum cinnamomeum

Distribution and Habitat

  • Astrothelium is widespread and corticolous (growing on bark), mainly in lowland forests.
  • Found in locations such as Sri Lanka, Costa Rica, Brazil (Vale do Catimbau, Pernambuco), China (Yunnan), Australia and its Island Territories, subtropical Florida, and Jammu and Kashmir State, India.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Some species of Astrothelium intergrade with species of Trypethelium, making identification challenging.

Ecological Role

  • Some research indicates that genera like Astrothelium require taxonomic revision due to non-monophyly.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • The mycobiont (fungal partner) of Astrothelium sp. produces antibacterial naphthoquinone analogues.

Quirky Facts

  • Astrothelium is sometimes referred to as "Speckled Wart Lichens."

Resources and Further Information

  • Encyclopedia of Life
  • Lichen Herbarium Berlin
  • Arizona State University Lichen Collection
  • Index Fungorum
  • Mushroom Observer (lichen observations)
  • North American Lichen Checklist