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arctic eggyolk lichen
Scientific Name: Candelariella arctica
Family: Candelariaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
Candelariella arctica - Arctic Eggyolk Lichen
Explore the fascinating Arctic Eggyolk Lichen (Candelariella arctica), a unique lichen species found in arctic regions.
Considerations for Pets
- This lichen, like many others, may grow on rocks and other surfaces.
Considerations for Children
- The lichen takes a long time to grow; each colony needs approximately 100 years to reach the diameter of a fried egg yolk.
Quirky Facts
- Some lichens, including those related to Candelariella, can appear fluorescent egg-yolk yellow under black light.
- Inuit hunters in the Arctic use this lichen, and related species have been used for oral hygiene and as ingredients in salads.
Nomenclature and Taxonomy
- Scientific Name: Candelariella arctica (Krb.) R. Sant.
- Common Name: Arctic Eggyolk Lichen
- Family: Candelariaceae
- Synonym: Candelariella crenulata (Wahlenb.) Zahlbr.
- The genus is often referred to as eggyolk lichens, goldspeck lichens, or yolk lichens.
Distribution and Habitat
- Primarily found in arctic regions.
- Specific mentions include the American Arctic, Baffin Island, Ungava-Labrador, Greenland, and areas near the Arctic Circle in Sweden.
Morphological Characteristics
- It is a lichenous plant, identified as crustose or squamulose.
- Thallus is egg yolk yellow (orange-yellow).
Ecological Role
- Lichens are important components of subarctic and arctic ecosystems due to their role in weathering rock and minerals.