SafePlants

Disc Lichen: A Comprehensive Overview

Lichens in the genus *Buellia*, along with other related genera, are commonly referred to as disc lichens or button lichens, a reference to their distinctive fruiting bodies.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions lichens producing secondary metabolites. It is worth researching the specific metabolites produced by the species of disc lichen in your area and consulting with a veterinarian if you have concerns.

Considerations for Children

• Lichens are sometimes found on rocks, trees, or other surfaces that children may interact with outdoors. The text mentions lichens producing secondary metabolites. It is worth researching the specific metabolites produced by the species of disc lichen in your area and consulting with a doctor if you have concerns.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: *Buellia* (genus)
• Common Names: Disc lichen, Button lichen, Black Disc Lichen, Common Button Lichen, Stilling's Disc Lichen, Rock Disk Lichen

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Genus: *Buellia*
• Family: Physciaceae (for *Buellia nigra*) and Megasporaceae (for a "sunken disc lichen")
• Synonyms/Alternative Names: *Buelliopsis papillata* (for *Buellia papillata*)

Distribution and Habitat

• The genus has a widespread distribution.
• Specific locations mentioned include Howard County, the Diamond Coast, Chiricahua National Monument, New Mexico, South Glenmore Park, and England.

Morphological Characteristics

• Characterized by disc-shaped apothecia (fruiting bodies), which may be black, yellow, or brown.
• Apothecia can be epruinose (lacking a powdery surface coating) or pruinose (having a powdery coating).
• Thallus (the main body of the lichen) can be crustose (closely attached to the substrate) or foliose (leaf-like).
• Some species have a necrotic thalline veil.
• The fruiting bodies of some soot lichens are small and disc shaped, similar to cup-fungi.

Quirky Facts

• One image caption references a "Captive Lichen Disc" that is actually a pattern from a dragonfly wing.
• Wendy Mode DK yarn has a color called "Lichen (234) DISC."

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The text mentions a study on the re-establishment rate of reindeer lichen species after soil preparation in clear-cut areas.
• Some lichens are found growing on live poplar trees.

Further Information

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