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rock disc lichen
Scientific Name: Buellia geophila
Family: Physciaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
Aspicilia and Other Rock-Dwelling Lichens
This page explores the fascinating world of lichens that thrive on rocks, with a particular focus on the genus Aspicilia, also known as sunken disk lichens. We'll delve into their characteristics, habitats, and interesting facts.
Considerations for Pets
- Some lichens grow so closely attached to rocks that they may be difficult to remove, potentially posing a minor ingestion risk if pets chew on rocks.
Considerations for Children
- Lichens often have disc-shaped fruiting bodies (apothecia), which can be small and potentially mistaken for other objects by young children.
Scientific Classification and Nomenclature
- Genus: Aspicilia, commonly referred to as Sunken Disk Lichens.
- Synonyms: The text also mentions other genera of lichens found on rocks, including Buellia (Disc Lichen), Allantoparmelia (Rock Grub Lichen), and others.
Distribution and Habitat
- These lichens are typically found growing on rocks, particularly calcareous rocks (limestones) in sunny environments.
- They are found in diverse locations, including New Hampshire, Colorado (alpine tundra), Maryland, Guyana (Mazaruni River), and the Greater Sonoran Desert Region.
- Specific species may prefer acidic or non-calcareous rocks.
Morphological Characteristics
- Aspicilia and related lichens are often crustose, meaning they form a crust-like layer tightly adhered to the rock surface.
- Many possess apothecia, which are disc-shaped fruiting bodies involved in sexual reproduction. These discs can vary in color (black, orange-brown, yellow) and size (up to 1.5 mm in diameter).
- Some species produce a rhizina, a circular structure that anchors the lichen to the rock.
Quirky Facts
- Some rock lichens can grow even on underwater rocks, showcasing their ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions.
- Lichens are composed of multiple organisms, usually at least two: a fungus and algae. These organisms survive harsh conditions such as rock surfaces where they otherwise would not.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Some lichens, like Caloplaca epithallina, grow on other lichens.
- Lichens are composed of a fungus and algae in a symbiotic relationship, allowing survival where each could not alone.
Further Information
- The text references observations and photos from the Maryland Biodiversity Project and resources on Etsy.