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disc lichen

Scientific Name: Buellia lacteoidea

Family: Physciaceae

Category: Lichen

Growth: Lichenous

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Disc Lichens (Genus Buellia)

Disc lichens, also known as button lichens, belong to the genus Buellia. This genus encompasses a wide variety of lichen species with a broad global distribution.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some descriptions mention "necrotic thalline material," which refers to dead or decaying lichen tissue. While this doesn't definitively indicate toxicity, it's something to be aware of if pets are prone to ingesting natural materials.

Considerations for Children

  • The text mentions that lichens can have disc-shaped apothecia which produce fungal spores. These components may be small and could present a potential choking hazard for young children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Buellia De Not.
  • Common Names: Disc lichen, Button lichen, Common Button Lichen, Black Disc Lichen, Stilling's Disc Lichen
  • Family: Physciaceae (for Buellia nigra)
  • Synonyms: Buelliopsis papillata (for Buellia papillata)
  • Taxonomic Rank: Genus, Species (multiple species mentioned)

Distribution and Habitat

  • The genus has a widespread distribution.
  • Specific locations mentioned include:
    • Diamond Coast (South Africa)
    • Chiricahua National Monument (New Mexico, USA)
    • South Glenmore Park
    • England

Morphological Characteristics

  • The main body of the lichen is called the thallus.
  • Apothecia are disc- or cup-shaped fruiting bodies involved in sexual reproduction and produce fungal spores. These are often used in identification.
  • The discs can be black, yellow, or brown.
  • Some species have discs that are strongly split, forming twisted rows.
  • Lichens are classified into three to seven growth forms, one of which is generally shaped like a disc with a rim.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • The text mentions reindeer lichen species in connection with forestry and soil preparation, indicating interactions within that ecosystem.
  • Some lichens were found to be growing on a live poplar tree.

Antimicrobial Activity

  • Some lichen extracts have shown potential antifungal effects in laboratory settings.

Resources and Further Information

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