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disc lichen

Scientific Name: Buellia elizae

Family: Physciaceae

Category: Lichen

Growth: Lichenous

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Disc Lichen (Buellia spp.)

Lichens in the genus Buellia are commonly known as disc lichens or button lichens.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some disc lichens have disc-shaped apothecia (fruiting bodies) which may contain substances that attract animals.
  • The text mentions lichen extracts being tested for antimicrobial activity.

Scientific Classification

  • Genus: Buellia
  • Family: Physciaceae (mentioned in relation to Buellia nigra)
  • Group: Lichen
  • Synonyms: Buelliopsis (mentioned in relation to Buellia papillata)

Common Names

  • Disc Lichen
  • Button Lichen
  • Black Disc Lichen (Buellia nigra)
  • Common Button Lichen (Synonym for Stilling's Disc Lichen, Buellia stillingiana)

Distribution and Habitat

  • The genus Buellia has a widespread distribution.
  • Observed on the Diamond Coast.
  • Found in Chiricahua National Monument (New Mexican disc lichen).
  • Grows on live poplar trees (reported sighting).
  • Also found on acid rock (sunken disc lichen).

Morphological Characteristics

  • Characterized by disc-shaped apothecia.
  • Apothecia (fruiting bodies) are often black and epruinose (lacking a powdery surface).
  • Some species produce circular, yellow, disk-like apothecia.
  • Thallus may have necrotic thalline material (thalline veil).

Ecological Role

  • Re-establishment rate studied after disc trenching in Pinus-lichen clear-cut areas.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • The lichen was extracted in acetone, methanol, and ethanol and tested for antimicrobial activity, showing potential antifungal effects.
  • Excessive supply of nutrients to discs of the lichen results in outgrowth.

Resources and Further Information

  • Catalogue of Life: 2012 Annual Checklist
  • LSID JSON / WMS / RDF data links