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Horsehair Lichen (Bryoria spp.)

Horsehair lichen refers to various species of lichens, particularly within the genus Bryoria. These lichens are known for their distinctive appearance, resembling clumps of hair hanging from trees.

Considerations for Pets and Children

• Physical Characteristics: These lichens are composed of intricately branched filaments.
• Traditional Uses: Some horsehair lichens, like Bryoria fremontii, have a history of use as a traditional food source by groups such as the Kootenais, Salish, and Blackfeet.

Scientific Classification

• Genus: Bryoria
• Family: Parmeliaceae
• Kingdom: Fungi
• Taxonomic Rank: Genus

Common Names

• Horsehair lichen
• Black moss
• Black tree lichen
• Edible horsehair lichen (referring specifically to Bryoria fremontii)
• Tree hair lichen
• Bear hair
• Horsetail lichen (synonym)

Synonyms and Alternative Names

• Alectoria (genus name sometimes used)

Distribution and Habitat

• Widespread, especially in boreal and cool temperate areas.
• Frequently found hanging from conifers, and less frequently from hardwoods.
• Common in old-growth forest habitats.
• Observed in locations like eastern Washington (on larch trees), the inland temperate rainforest, and the hills of Glen Affric.

Morphological Characteristics

• Thallus (lichen body) is typically long, pale gray to dark smokey brown.
• Grows in hanging clumps.
• Consists of slender strands containing long narrow slits on the surface.
• Some species, like Bryoria furcellata (Burred Horsehair Lichen), have dark brown branches with short pointed side branches.

Quirky Facts

• Several new English names have been recently invented for wila, one of the common names for Horsehair Lichen.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Frequently found on conifers, sometimes alongside other lichens like wolf lichen (Letharia vulpina).

Further Information

• Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of Natural History, Department of Botany