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disc lichen

Scientific Name: Buellia spuria

Family: Physciaceae

Category: Lichen

Growth: Lichenous

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Disc Lichens (Genus Buellia)

Lichens in the genus Buellia are commonly known as disc lichens or button lichens. This genus boasts a wide distribution and comprises approximately 450 species.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some disc lichens produce disc-shaped apothecia.

Considerations for Children

  • Some disc lichens produce disc-shaped apothecia.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Buellia
  • Common Names: Disc Lichen, Button Lichen
  • Family: Physciaceae (mentioned in relation to Buellia nigra)
  • Synonyms/Alternative Names:
    • Buelliopsis papillata (synonym for Buellia papillata)

Distribution and Habitat

  • The genus has a widespread distribution.
  • Observed on the Diamond Coast (Black-disc lichen, Diamond Coast - 2012).
  • Found in Chiricahua National Monument (New Mexican disc lichen).
  • Observed in South Glenmore Park growing on a live poplar tree.

Morphological Characteristics

  • The thallus (main body) may contain necrotic thalline material (thalline veil).
  • Discs (apothecia) are often black and epruinose (without a powdery surface).
  • Apothecia are variable in shape but commonly disc- or saucer-shaped.
  • Lichens are arbitrarily classified into three to seven growth forms, generally shaped like a disc, usually with a rim around the edge.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Found growing on live poplar trees.
  • Reindeer lichen species are found in Pinus-lichen clear-cuts.

Other Information

  • Extracts of the lichen have shown potential antifungal effects in vitro.
  • Lichen secondary metabolites can be extracted using a Soxhlet extractor.

Resources and Further Information

  • Catalogue of Life: 2012 Annual Checklist
  • Botanical Society of South Africa
  • NEBC LICHEN WALK
  • ordabok.is (Icelandic dictionary)