SafePlants

Disc Lichens (Genus Buellia and Others)

The term "disc lichen" or "button lichen" is commonly used to refer to lichens in various genera, notably including Buellia. This naming convention arises from their characteristic disc-shaped fruiting bodies (apothecia).

Considerations for Pets

• Some disc lichens produce fruiting bodies that are disc- or cup-shaped.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Genus: Buellia
• Common Names: Disc lichen, Button lichen, Black Disc Lichen, Common Button Lichen, Rock Disk Lichen
• Family: Physciaceae (for Buellia nigra)
• Synonyms: Buelliopsis papillata (for Disc Lichen - Buellia papillata)

Distribution and Habitat

• Disc lichens exhibit a widespread distribution.
• Observed in locations such as Howard County and the Diamond Coast (South Africa).
• Found on various substrates, including rocks, trees (e.g., poplar), and in clear-cut areas.
• Specifically noted in Chiricahua National Monument (New Mexican disc lichen).

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).
• Some species exhibit a thalline veil (necrotic thalline material).
• Growth forms can be crustose (closely attached to the substrate) or foliose (leaf-like).
• The "disc" expands at maturity

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Reindeer lichen species can be affected by soil preparation techniques.
• May grow on live trees alongside other lichen species.

Traditional/Historical Uses

• Lichens were extracted for in vitro antimicrobial activity testing.
• Lichens have antifungal properties.

Further Information

• Catalogue of Life: 2012 Annual Checklist
• Botanical Society of South Africa