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disc lichen

Scientific Name: Buellia lauricassiae

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

  • The text mentions the presence of secondary metabolites extracted using solvents, suggesting the lichen contains chemical compounds. While the text does not specify toxicity, it's important to prevent pets from ingesting lichens, especially if found in areas that may have been treated with pesticides or other chemicals.
  • The text also mentions that some lichens can form discs, which could detach and present a potential choking hazard, especially for smaller animals.

Considerations for Children

  • As with pets, ingestion should be avoided. The text mentions the presence of secondary metabolites extracted using solvents, suggesting the lichen contains chemical compounds. While the text does not specify toxicity, it's important to prevent children from ingesting lichens.
  • The text also mentions that some lichens can form discs, which could detach and present a potential choking hazard for younger children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Buellia spp.
  • Common Names: Disc lichen, Button lichen, Black Disc Lichen, Stilling's Disc Lichen, Common Button Lichen, Rock Disk Lichen.
  • Family: Physciaceae (for at least one species, Buellia nigra)
  • Synonyms: Buelliopsis papillata (for Disc Lichen - Buellia papillata)

Distribution and Habitat

  • The genus has a widespread distribution.
  • Observed in locations such as Howard County, Diamond Coast, Chiricahua National Monument, South Glenmore Park and New Hampshire.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Forms disc-shaped apothecia (fruiting bodies) that are often black or yellow.
  • The thallus (main body) can be necrotic and may have a thin, persistent veil.
  • Some species have apothecia that are strongly split, forming twisted rows of separate discs.

Ecological Role

  • The text references a study on the re-establishment rate of reindeer lichen species following soil preparation in clear-cut areas.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • The text mentions lichens growing on a live poplar tree alongside Lecanora species.
  • Lichens are also described as being used in disc cultures for nutrient studies.

Quirky Facts

  • The text mentions lichens being tested for antifungal effects using disc diffusion methods, indicating a potential use in natural antimicrobial applications.
  • One mention is made of lichen being used as a color (Lichen 234) in wool yarn.
  • There's a reference to a "Captive Lichen Disc" which, surprisingly, turns out to be a pattern from a dragonfly wing, showcasing a creative visual association.

Further Information

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