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cap lichen
Scientific Name: Baeomyces rufus
Family: Baeomycetaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
British Soldier Lichen (Cladonia cristatella)
The Cladonia cristatella, commonly known as the British Soldier Lichen, is a fascinating organism named for its distinctive appearance.
Considerations for Pets
- Lichens often grow on various surfaces and objects.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Cladonia cristatella
- Common Name: British Soldier Lichen
- The text also references the genus Baeomyces, with members commonly called cap lichens, and Baeomyces rufus.
- Family: Baeomycetaceae
- Group: Lichen
Distribution and Habitat
- The text indicates that Baeomyces rufus cap lichens are found growing on stones and moss.
Morphological Characteristics
- Cladonia cristatella is characterized by its "red caps," which are the fruiting bodies (apothecia) of the lichen. These red caps are what give the lichen its common name, resembling the red hats worn by British soldiers ("Red Coats").
- Baeomyces cap lichens have a flattened convex cap that can range in color from pale green to pale grey.
Quirky Facts
- The British Soldier Lichen earned its name because its red caps were believed to resemble the hats worn by British soldiers.
- Some fungi, like the turf navel-cap, form lichen relationships with algae.