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orange lichen

Scientific Name: Caloplaca atrosanguinea

Family: Teloschistaceae

Category: Lichen

Growth: Lichenous

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Xanthoria parietina: Common Orange Lichen

Xanthoria parietina, a foliose (leafy) lichen, is known by several common names, including common orange lichen, yellow scale, maritime sunburst lichen, orange lichen, and orange wall lichen.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Xanthoria parietina
  • Family: Teloschistaceae
  • Genus: Xanthoria
  • Common Names: Common orange lichen, yellow scale, maritime sunburst lichen, orange lichen, orange wall lichen, sunburst lichen

Considerations for Pets

  • Grows on rocks, concrete, and trees and can be found near cattle farms.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Has a wide distribution.
  • Commonly found on rocks, concrete, and trees.
  • Frequently observed in coastal areas and mountainous regions.
  • Can be prolific in areas with ammonia, such as near cattle farms.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Foliose (leafy) lichen forming large, rounded patches up to 10 cm across.
  • Exhibits wide, round-lipped marginal lobes.
  • Thallus color ranges from yellowish-green to golden-yellow or orange, appearing grey in shade.
  • Lacks isidia or soredia; apothecia are usually present.

Ecological Role

  • Can be especially prolific, forming an orange lichen belt.
  • May identify hunting perches of birds and grow in profusion in seabird locations.
  • Can inhibit the growth of new shrubs on which it colonizes.

Interesting Facts

  • The orange color is due to the production of the pigment parietin.
  • Color can vary with sun and rain exposure; orange or yellow lichens in shade may appear green.
  • Pigments can be extracted by boiling and used to dye wool and other fibers.
  • Parietin, an orange pigment, may have potential as an anti-cancer drug.