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disc lichen

Scientific Name: Buellia lepidastra

Family: Physciaceae

Category: Lichen

Growth: Lichenous

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Disc Lichen (Buellia spp. and others)

The term "disc lichen" or "button lichen" is commonly used to refer to lichens within the genus Buellia, but also applies more broadly to other lichen species exhibiting disc-shaped fruiting bodies.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some lichens produce secondary metabolites that can have antifungal effects. While this may not be directly harmful, ingestion of large quantities by pets should be avoided.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Genus: Buellia De Not.
  • Family: Physciaceae (for at least one species, Buellia nigra)
  • Common Names: Disc Lichen, Button Lichen, Black Disc Lichen, Common Button Lichen, Stilling's Disc Lichen, New Mexican disc lichen, Rock Disk Lichen
  • Synonyms: Buelliopsis papillata (for Buellia papillata), also refers to other genera such as Badia
  • Related Taxa: Acarospora fuscata (Brown Cobblestone Lichen), Aspicilia caesiocinerea (sunken disc lichen), Lecanora spp.

Distribution and Habitat

  • The genus Buellia has a widespread distribution.
  • Specific locations mentioned include: Diamond Coast, Chiricahua National Monument, Howard Co., New Hampshire, South Glenmore Park, England

Morphological Characteristics

  • Lichens are described as having a thallus, which is the main 'body' of the lichen.
  • Apothecia are small, disc- or cup-shaped fruiting bodies involved in sexual reproduction. They produce fungal spores and are used in lichen identification.
  • Some disc lichens are described as having a black, epruinose disc.
  • The apothecia (discs) can vary in shape, some are sunken, others are split forming twisted rows of separate discs. Some discs expand at maturity.
  • Thalline veil (necrotic thalline material) may be thin and persistent.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Lichens can grow on various substrates, including rocks, trees (e.g., poplar), and soil.

Quirky Facts

  • Lichens have been examined for their antifungal properties using a disc diffusion assay.
  • Disc lichens can be found in a variety of colors, including yellow, brown, and black, which is helpful in identifying them.

Further Information

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