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disc lichen

Scientific Name: Buellia

Family: Physciaceae

Category: Lichen

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Disc Lichens (Genus Buellia)

Lichens in the genus Buellia are commonly known as disc lichens or button lichens. This diverse group comprises around 450 species with a widespread distribution.

Considerations for Pets

  • 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, Stilling's Disc Lichen, New Mexican Disc Lichen.
  • Family: Physciaceae (for Buellia nigra).
  • Synonyms: Buelliopsis papillata (for Buellia papillata).

Distribution and Habitat

  • The genus has a widespread distribution.
  • Observed on the Diamond Coast in 2012.
  • Found in Chiricahua National Monument.
  • Observed in Howard Co.
  • Observed in South Glenmore Park growing on a live poplar tree.
  • Found in England.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Disc lichens can exhibit a necrotic thalline material (thalline veil).
  • Discs are often black and epruinose (lacking a powdery surface).
  • Apothecia (fruiting bodies) are variable in shape but commonly disc- or saucer-shaped.
  • Fruiting bodies can be disc or cup-shaped.
  • Some exhibit circular, yellow disk-like structures.
  • Buellia nigra is a black disc lichen.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Some disc lichens are found growing on trees.
  • Can be overgrown with nutrients.

Uses

  • Lichen extracts have shown potential antifungal effects in laboratory settings.
  • Historically used for treatment of erosive oral lichen planus.

Quirky Facts

  • Captive Lichen Disc is a pattern from a dragonfly wing.

Further Information

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