SafePlants

Caloplaca floridana (Tuck.) S. Tucker

Also known as Florida Orange Lichen, Caloplaca floridana is a fascinating lichen species.

Considerations for Pets and Children

• Lichens often grow on rocks or trees.
• Some lichens have a powdery deposit.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Caloplaca floridana (Tuck.) S. Tucker
• Common Name: Florida Orange Lichen
• Group: Lichen
• Family: Teloschistaceae
• Synonyms: References are made to other Caloplaca species such as Caloplaca adnexa, Caloplaca alcarum, and Caloplaca alociza.

Distribution and Habitat

• This species has been photographed in southern Florida.
• It is associated with oak trees in North Florida woods.
• Observed in locations like Orange County, Florida.

Morphological Characteristics

• The thallus (body) of the lichen is described as being composed of mycelia.
• Lichens can carpet the ground in colorful shades of yellow, orange, and red.
• Some lichens have a powdery or mossy, crusty growth.
• Identified by its bright orange or red pigmentation.

Chemical Properties

• Chemical Tests: K+ deep yellow on the medulla, Pd+ orange.
• The orange color is due to the production of the pigment parietin at the lichen surface.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Lichens are symbiotic organisms formed of a fungus and algae.
• Often found growing on rocks, often near bird or rodent perches.
• Mention of the black and yellow lichen moth, Lycomorpha pholus.

Quirky Facts

• The alga Trentepohlia is seen as a vivid orange powdery deposit on trees.
• Orange lichens are being studied as a potential source for anticancer drugs due to a pigment known as parietin.

Further Information

• Lichen Flora of the Greater Sonoran Desert Region
• Garden Guides
• University of Florida
• iNaturalist