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dotted lichen

Scientific Name: Bacidia rosella

Family: Bacidiaceae

Category: Lichen

Growth: Lichenous

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Dotted Lichen: A Botanical Overview

This page provides information about the Dotted Lichen, a common name associated with several species within the Bacidia genus, and sometimes with species in the genus *Ramalina*. Lichens are fascinating symbiotic organisms, often found in diverse environments.

Considerations for Pets

  • Lichens may grow on trees in areas accessible to pets.

Scientific Classification and Nomenclature

  • Common Name: Dotted Lichen
  • Scientific Name: Primarily associated with the genus Bacidia, but also used for some species of Ramalina.
  • Kingdom: Fungi (lichens are a symbiotic relationship between fungi and algae or cyanobacteria, but are classified within the fungal kingdom)
  • Phylum: Ascomycota (for Bacidia species, based on the classification of Bacidia schweinitzii)
  • Family: Bacidiaceae (based on "dotted lichen Botanical Family Bacidiaceae")
  • Synonyms and Related Species:
    • Bacidia arceutina
    • Bacidia polychroa
    • Bacidia rubella
    • Bacidia jacobi
    • Bacidia schweinitzii (Synonym: Surprise Lichen)
    • Ramalina farinacea (Dotted Ramalina)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Widespread, including the UK, where there are approximately 1700 species of lichens.
  • Often found on trees, particularly those in acidic environments.
  • Observed on maple branches near the Wind River Tree Farm, Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
  • Found on alpine granite and peat at Mount Bimberi in the Australian Capital Territory.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Fruticose (shrubby) growth form is mentioned for Ramalina species referred to as Dotted Lichen.
  • Crustaceous forms are also noted ("Crufiaceous").

Ecological Role and Interactions

  • Tolerance to acid environments allows it to thrive on trees.
  • Provides camouflage for moths, where they can rest unseen.
  • Serves as a food source for bright green larvae with black dots.

Quirky Facts

  • Some lichens have been used to create custom fabrics, chosen for their superior quality and design.
  • The common name "Dotted Lichen" applies to multiple species across different genera.

Related Lichen Genera

  • Ramalina

Further Resources

  • Catalogue of Life: 2012 Annual Checklist
  • Encyclopedia of Life
  • WikiSpecies
  • BHL
  • ToL