SafePlants

Disc Lichens (Genus Buellia)

Lichens within the genus Buellia are commonly known as disc lichens or button lichens. These fascinating organisms showcase a wide range of diversity and ecological roles.

Considerations for Pets and Children

• Some disc lichens have disc-shaped apothecia.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Buellia De Not.
• Common Names: Disc lichen, Button lichen, Common Button Lichen, Black Disc Lichen
• Family: Physciaceae (for Buellia nigra)
• Synonyms: Buelliopsis papillata (for Disc Lichen - Buellia papillata)

Distribution and Habitat

• The genus Buellia has a widespread distribution.
• Observed on the Diamond Coast in 2012.
• Found in Chiricahua National Monument (New Mexican disc lichen).
• Observed growing on a live poplar tree in South Glenmore Park.

Morphological Characteristics

• Characterized by necrotic thalline material (thalline veil).
• Discs are typically black and epruinose (lacking a powdery or frosty surface).
• Apothecia are disc- or cup-shaped fruiting bodies involved in sexual reproduction, producing fungal spores.
• Growth forms are generally shaped like a disc, usually with a rim around the edge.

Ecological Role

• Mentioned in the context of reindeer lichen re-establishment following disc trenching in clear-cut areas.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Extracts of lichens, including Buellia, have been tested for antimicrobial and antifungal activity.

Quirky Facts

• Some species form strongly twisted rows of separate discs.

Specific Species Mentioned

• Buellia amphidexia
• Buellia capitis-regnum
• Buellia papillata (also known as Buelliopsis papillata)
• Buellia stillingiana (Stilling's Disc Lichen, also known as Common Button Lichen)
• Buellia nigra (Black Disc Lichen)
• Buellia imshaugii (Imshaug's Disc Lichen)
• Buellia halonia
• Buellia melanochroa

Further Resources

• Catalogue of Life: 2012 Annual Checklist
• British Lichen Society (BLS) Lichen Database