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Fremont's horsehair lichen
Scientific Name: Bryoria fremontii
Family: Parmeliaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
Fremont's Horsehair Lichen
This page provides information about Fremont's Horsehair Lichen, a fascinating organism found in various regions.
Considerations for Pets
- Mentioned as "tree moss".
Considerations for Children
- Referred to as "edible horsehair," indicating a historical food source. While not explicitly toxic, it's important to note that wild lichens should not be consumed without expert guidance.
Scientific Name and Common Names
- Scientific Name: Bryoria fremontii (Tuck.) Brodo & D. Hawksw.
- Common Names: Fremont's Horsehair Lichen, Tree Hair Lichen, Black Tree Lichen, Edible Horsehair, Black Tree Moss
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Kingdom: Not explicitly stated in the provided text, but lichens are generally classified within the Fungi kingdom.
- Family: Parmeliaceae
- Rank: Species
- Synonyms/Alternative Names: Alectoria jubata (archaic classification), Alectoria fremontii
Distribution and Habitat
- Found in eastern Washington, often growing on larch trees (Laryx).
- Observed in the Fremont National Forest in Oregon.
- May occur in regions with elevations between 75-430m.
Morphological Characteristics
- Described as a dark-brown, hair-like lichen.
- Grows in a lichenous habit.
- Appearance can resemble horsehair hanging from trees.
Quirky Facts
- Fremont's Horsehair Lichen was historically eaten by First Peoples in North America.
- It was used as an ingredient when baking bear meat, camas, or lichens.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Forms a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and either green algae.
Further Information
- Information available through the USDA.
- Referenced in "The Lichens of British Columbia, Illustrated Keys" for the identification.