SafePlants

Cracked Lichen: A Closer Look

Cracked lichens, often resembling cobblestone roads or cracked paint, encompass various species within the Acarospora genus. These lichens are known for their distinctive cracked-areolate thallus.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions "sheep-based drug cartel", although in a non-serious way. This indicates that lichens might have some biological activity.

Considerations for Children

• The cracked surface of the lichen could potentially be broken into small pieces.

Common Names and Scientific Names

• Common Names: Cobblestone Lichens, Cracked Lichens, Crack Lichen, Schleicher Crack.
• Scientific Names: Primarily species within the genus Acarospora (e.g., Acarospora hilaris, Acarospora schleicheri, Acarospora aeruginosa, Acarospora arenosa, Acarospora gallica, Acarospora nodulosa, Acarospora impressula, Acarospora socialis, Acarospora badiofusca).

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Kingdom: Fungi
• Phylum: Ascomycota
• Class: Lecanoromycetes
• Order: Agyriales
• Family: Acarosporaceae
• Genus: Acarospora

Distribution and Habitat

• Acarospora hilaris is found in desolate parts of the Rockies.
• Acarospora schleicheri is found in the Rocky Mountains.

Morphological Characteristics

• Cracked lichens exhibit a "cracked-areolate" thallus, where a continuous crust may crack during growth.
• The lichen thallus initially consists of separate lumps that grow together to form a cracked surface.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Lichens slowly break down rocks, contributing to weathering processes.
• The text mentions lichens growing on tree bark, sandstone cliffs, and various rock surfaces.

Further Information

• plants.usda.gov
• HortHub.com
• Mushroom Observer (mushroomobserver.org)
• Catalogue of Life