SafePlants

Eggyolk Lichen: A Colorful Crustose Species

Eggyolk lichens, also known as goldspeck lichens or yolk lichens, belong to the genus Candelariella within the Lecanoraceae family. These lichens are known for their bright colors, often clinging to rocks, bark, or old wood.

Considerations for Pets

• Eggyolk lichen can be found on tree trunks, rocks, and old wood which may be accessible to pets outdoors.

Scientific Classification and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Candelariella (Genus)
• Family: Candelariaceae
• Synonyms/Common Names: Eggyolk lichen, Goldspeck lichen, Yolk lichen, Common Goldspeck Lichen
• Species Examples: Candelariella arctica, Candelariella athallina, Candelariella vitellina, Candelariella rosulans, Candelariella spraguei, Candelariella terrigena, Candelariella dispersa, Candelariella deflexa, Candelariella xanthostigma, Candelariella aurella, Candelariella placodizans, Candelariella sp.
• Symbol: CANDE3

Morphological Characteristics

• Crustose or squamulose (forming a crust-like or scaly growth).
• Thallus (body) may consist of minute granules (up to 0.1mm).
• Often displays a bright yellow color, resembling egg yolk.

Habitat and Distribution

• Found growing on rock, bark, or old wood.
• Observed in locations such as Michigan, Waterloo, Molonglo Gorge, Carderick Recreation Area, and Chiricahua National Monument.

Ecological Role

• Moderate pollution tolerance, indicating mediocre air quality.
• Requires nitrogen to survive and often thrives under bird colonies.

Quirky Facts

• Some species take 100 years to reach the diameter of a fried egg yolk.
• May appear a startling egg-yolk yellow under black light.

Further Information

• APHOTOFUNGI - Photographic Stock Library
• Catalogue of Life: 2012 Annual Checklist