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disc lichen

Scientific Name: Buellia semitensis

Family: Physciaceae

Category: Lichen

Growth: Lichenous

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Disc Lichen (Various Species)

The term "disc lichen" or "button lichen" refers to various species within several genera of lichens, characterized by their disc-shaped fruiting bodies.

Considerations for Pets

  • Lichens in general have been known to be extracted in acetone, methanol, and ethanol.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

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

Distribution and Habitat

Disc lichens exhibit a widespread distribution, occurring in diverse environments. Specific examples include:

  • Howard County (referencing Buellia stillingiana)
  • Diamond Coast (referencing Black-disc lichen)
  • Chiricahua National Monument (referencing New Mexican disc lichen)
  • South Glenmore Park (lichen growing on a live poplar tree)

Morphological Characteristics

  • Characterized by disc-shaped fruiting bodies (apothecia). The apothecia are often described as disc- or cup-shaped.
  • Some species have yellow, disc-shaped apothecia.
  • Some have a thalline veil (necrotic thalline material).
  • Discs can be black and epruinose (without a powdery surface).
  • Some species form twisted rows of separate discs.

Quirky Facts

  • The Downs lichen trail was funded by the British Lichen Society, the Bristol Naturalists' Society and included "another disc on the smaller branches."
  • One source humorously notes an image that resembles a dragonfly wing pattern, but is used to showcase the "Captive Lichen Disc rotating!"

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • One study investigates the re-establishment rate of reindeer lichen species following soil preparation in Pinus-lichen clear-cut areas, indicating an association with pine trees.
  • Lichens can grow on trees, as evidenced by a lichen found on a live poplar tree.
  • Some studies explore the antifungal activity of lichen extracts, indicating potential interactions with fungal species.
  • Lichens are known to host fungal spores within their fruiting bodies.

Further Information

  • Catalogue of Life: 2012 Annual Checklist is mentioned as a data link.
  • NEBC LICHEN WALK is referenced as a source of information.
  • ordabok.is is a mentioned internet dictionary (Icelandic).