No images found for this plant ID: 497.
Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "497" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.
cracked lichen
Scientific Name: Acarospora oligospora
Family: Acarosporaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
Cracked Lichen (Various Species)
The term "cracked lichen" is used to describe various lichen species that exhibit a distinctive cracked or cobblestone-like appearance on their thallus (body). This appearance is often due to the growth pattern where separate lumps grow together, forming a continuous but fractured surface.
Considerations for Pets and Children
- The text describes some lichens as having a "cracked-areolate" thallus, suggesting a potentially uneven or fragile surface.
- Some lichens, specifically *Acarospora*, grow on rocks, which might present a rough or abrasive texture.
Quirky Facts
- One mention references "narcotic lichen" found in desolate parts of the Rockies, although this appears to be a humorous aside rather than a statement of fact.
- The text alludes to the use of lichens to break down rocks, highlighting their role in weathering and geological processes.
Scientific Names and Common Names
- Common Name: Cracked Lichen, Cobblestone Lichen
- Examples of Scientific Names:
- *Acarospora hilaris*
- *Acarospora schleicheri* (Schleicher's Cracked Lichen)
- *Acarospora aeruginosa*
- *Acarospora arenosa*
- *Acarospora gallica* (Gallic Cracked Lichen)
- *Acarospora impressula*
- *Acarospora nodulosa*
- *Acarospora socialis*
- *Acarospora badiofusca*
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Kingdom: Fungi
- Phylum: Ascomycota
- Class: Lecanoromycetes
- Order: Agyriales
- Family: Acarosporaceae
- Genus: Acarospora
Distribution and Habitat
- Some species of cracked lichen are found in Britain and Ireland.
- Schleicher's Cracked Lichen (*Acarospora schleicheri*) is found in the Rocky Mountains.
- The text mentions a lichen found on sandstone cliffs.
Morphological Characteristics
- The thallus (lichen body) is often described as "cracked-areolate," resembling cobblestones or cracked paint.
- The thallus can start as separate lumps that grow together.
- Some species have a white, cracked thallus that appears frosted.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Lichens can grow on rocks and contribute to their breakdown through weathering.
- They can be found growing on trees and wooden structures along with moss and fungi.
- The text mentions lichens growing on sandstone cliffs alongside other plants.
Further Information
- plants.usda.gov
- HortHub.com
- Mushroom Observer (mushroomobserver.org)
- Catalogue of Life