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cracked lichen
Scientific Name: Acarospora pyrenopsoides
Family: Acarosporaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
Acarospora: The Cobblestone Lichen
Lichens of the genus Acarospora, often referred to as cobblestone or cracked lichens, are known for their distinctive appearance resembling cracked pavement or old paint.
Considerations for Pets and Children
- The text mentions that lichens can grow on rocks and cause them to crack and break apart over time. While this isn't a direct threat, it's worth noting that children and pets exploring natural environments might encounter unstable rocks affected by lichen growth.
- Some lichens have a "cracked-areolate" thallus, which means their surface is cracked into small segments. It's important to be aware that if handled, some lichens may be fragile and easily crumble, and small parts may be ingested.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Acarospora
- Common Names: Cobblestone Lichen, Cracked Lichen
- Kingdom: Fungi
- Phylum: Ascomycota
- Class: Lecanoromycetes
- Order: Agyriales
- Family: Acarosporaceae
- Genus: Acarospora
Distribution and Habitat
- Acarospora lichens are found in various locations, including:
- The Rocky Mountains (specifically noted for the rare "narcotic lichen")
- Britain and Ireland
- Planalto das Cezaredas, Portugal (Acarospora nodulosa)
- Olympic National Park
- They often grow on rocks such as granite and dolomite, and can also be found on sandstone cliffs.
Morphological Characteristics
- The lichen thallus (body) initially forms as separate lumps that grow together, creating a continuous, cracked surface.
- Some species have a "cracked-areolate" thallus. This means the surface is cracked into small, island-like sections.
- Certain Acarospora species, like Buellia subalbula, have a white, cracked thallus that appears slightly frosted.
- Acarospora socialis can appear different under ultraviolet light.
- Some species have bright yellow areoles with small, darker apothecia (fruiting bodies).
Quirky Facts
- One specific lichen found in desolate parts of the Rockies is referred to as 'narcotic lichen'. The text jests about the unlikely scenario of a "sheep-based drug cartel."
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Lichens, including Acarospora, contribute to the weathering of rocks by slowly breaking them down.
- They can grow alongside moss and fungi on surfaces like tree bark and wooden planks.
Further Information
- plants.usda.gov
- HortHub.com
- Mushroom Observer (mushroomobserver.org)