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orange lichen

Scientific Name: Caloplaca exsecuta

Family: Teloschistaceae

Category: Lichen

Growth: Lichenous

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Xanthoria parietina: The Common Orange Lichen

Xanthoria parietina is a foliose lichen known for its vibrant color and widespread distribution. Often found in easily observable locations, this lichen adds a splash of color to various environments.

Common Names

  • Common orange lichen
  • Yellow scale
  • Maritime sunburst lichen
  • Orange lichen
  • Orange wall lichen
  • Sunburst lichen
  • Golden Shield Lichen
  • Shore Lichen

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Genus: Xanthoria
  • Family: Teloschistaceae

Distribution and Habitat

  • Has a wide distribution.
  • Commonly found on rocks, concrete, and trees.
  • Can be found near cattle farms, as it favors ammonia-rich environments.
  • Also found on coastal rocks and in mountainous areas.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Foliose (leafy) lichen.
  • Forms large, rounded patches, up to 10 cm across.
  • Possesses wide, round-lipped marginal lobes.
  • The thallus (body) color ranges from yellowish-green to orange, and may appear grey in shaded areas.
  • Lacks isidia or soredia.
  • Apothecia (fruiting bodies) are usually present and have a dark orange disc surrounded by a lighter edge.

Ecological Role

  • Lichens, including Xanthoria parietina, can survive harsh weather conditions that might kill fungi or algae growing separately.
  • Orange lichens may identify hunting perches of birds.
  • Can grow prolifically in seabird areas.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • A symbiotic association between a fungus and an alga forms the lichen.
  • The orange color is due to production of the pigment parietin.

Traditional Uses

  • Pigments from colorful lichens, including orange lichens, can be extracted by boiling and used to dye wool and other fibers.

Considerations for Pets

  • While specific hazards were not discussed in the text, the potential use of boiling lichen in dye production and mention of thallus color being due to the pigment parietin should be considered regarding possible irritant or allergic qualities.

Quirky Facts

  • The intensity of color in Xanthoria parietina can vary depending on the amount of sun or rain it receives; it may appear green in shaded areas and more vibrant orange or yellow in sunnier spots.
  • Orange lichens can be a sign of a healthy forest.