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disc lichen

Scientific Name: Buellia vernicoma

Family: Physciaceae

Category: Lichen

Growth: Lichenous

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Disc Lichens (Genus Buellia)

Lichens within the genus Buellia are commonly referred to as disc lichens or button lichens. Several species are also referenced, such as Stilling's Disc Lichen (Buellia stillingiana), Black Disc Lichen (Buellia nigra), New Mexican disc lichen, and Rock Disk Lichen.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text mentions that the apothecia, which are the disc or cup-shaped fruiting bodies of the lichen, are involved in sexual reproduction and produce fungal spores.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Buellia (genus)
  • Common Names: Disc lichens, Button lichens
  • Family: Physciaceae (mentioned in relation to Buellia nigra)
  • Symbol: BUELL
  • Alternative Scientific Names: Buelliopsis papillata (synonym for Buellia papillata)

Distribution and Habitat

The genus Buellia has a widespread distribution. Specific locations mentioned include Howard Co., the Diamond Coast, Chiricahua National Monument, South Glenmore Park, and the Downs lichen trail.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Disc lichens often have disc-shaped apothecia (fruiting bodies).
  • The "thallus" is the main body of the lichen.
  • Some species have yellow, disc-shaped apothecia.
  • Some species have a black disc, which is epruinose (lacking a powdery surface coating).
  • The apothecia can be variable in shape, commonly disc- or saucer-shaped.
  • Some lichens have a rim around the edge of the disc.

Quirky Facts

  • One source references a "Captive Lichen Disc rotating," suggesting an artistic or visually interesting way to display or observe lichens.
  • The text also refers to the use of lichens to create a yarn in Lichen (234) DISC color.

Ecological Role and Interactions

  • Reindeer lichens are mentioned in the context of re-establishment rates following soil preparation in clear-cut areas.
  • Lichens can grow on various substrates including rocks, trees (e.g., poplar), and soil.

Antimicrobial Activity

Some lichen extracts have shown potential antifungal effects in laboratory tests using disc diffusion techniques.

Further Information

  • Catalogue of Life: 2012 Annual Checklist
  • ordabok.is (an Icelandic dictionary)