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horsehair lichen

Scientific Name: Bryoria capillaris

Family: Parmeliaceae

Category: Lichen

Growth: Lichenous

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Horsehair Lichen

Horsehair lichen is a common name applied to several lichen species, particularly those within the genus Bryoria. These lichens are known for their distinctive appearance, resembling long, hanging strands of hair.

Considerations for Pets

  • Horsehair lichens are composed of intricately branched filaments.

Considerations for Children

  • The thallus of horsehair lichen consists of filaments.

Scientific Classification

  • Genus: Bryoria
  • Family: Parmeliaceae
  • Kingdom: Fungi
  • Phylum: Ascomycota (for Bryoria furcellata)
  • Class: Lecanoromycetes (for Bryoria furcellata)
  • Order: Lecanorales (for Bryoria furcellata)

Synonyms and Common Names

  • Scientific Name: Bryoria fremontii
  • Common Names: horsehair lichen, black tree lichen, tree hair lichen, edible horsehair lichen, bear hair
  • Synonyms: horsetail lichen

Distribution and Habitat

  • Horsehair lichens have a widespread distribution, especially in boreal and cool temperate areas.
  • They are often found hanging from conifers (less frequently hardwoods).
  • Observed in locations such as eastern Washington and the inland temperate rainforests.
  • Specific locations mentioned: Okanagan National Forest (Washington, USA), Mount Roberts, Glen Affric.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Composed of intricately branched filaments that hang from trees.
  • The thallus (body) is long, pale gray to dark smokey brown, hanging in clumps.
  • Strands contain long narrow slits on the surface.
  • Bryoria furcellata (Burred Horsehair Lichen) has dark brown branches with short pointed side branches.

Traditional Uses

  • Hanging tree lichens (including black horsehair lichen) have been traditionally used as food by the Kootenais, Salish, and Blackfeet.

Quirky Facts

  • Several English names for wila (likely referring to Bryoria fremontii) have been recently invented.
  • One newly discovered species of horsehair lichen is mentioned as needing a name.

Related Species and Mentions

  • Sulcaria badia (bay horsehair lichen) - USFS Sensitive.
  • Bryoria nadvornikiana (Spiny Gray Horsehair Lichen).
  • Bryoria capillaris.
  • Bryoria nitidula (Tundra Horsehair Lichen).
  • Bryoria tortuosa.
  • Bryoria pseudocapillaris (false gray horsehair lichen).