SafePlants

Hulten's Pitted Lichen (Cavernularia hultenii)

Cavernularia hultenii, commonly known as Hulten's pitted lichen, is a fascinating lichen species. It is also referred to as powdered honeycomb lichen.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Cavernularia hultenii Degel.
• Common Name: Hulten's pitted lichen, Powdered honeycomb lichen
• Group: Lichen
• Family: Parmeliaceae
• Rank: Species
• Symbol: CAHU60
• Synonyms: The provided text does not list any specific synonyms for Cavernularia hultenii.
• Other Cavernularia Species Mentioned: Cavernularia lophyrea

Distribution and Habitat

• The lichen has been identified in southern Alaska and the Aleutian Islands.
• It is found in lichen-carpeted alpine regions.
• Often found in areas characterized by pitted outwash plains.
• Grows on bark and wood of Sitka spruce, Western hemlock, Douglas-fir, and hardwood forests.

Morphological Characteristics

• The lichen is described as "pitted."
• Its thallus (body) is reticulate, pitted, unevenly rugose, with fleck- to streak-form.
• The lower surface may have a smooth, pitted, or slightly veined texture.

Considerations for Pets

• Lichens can sometimes be mistaken for moss.
• This lichen sometimes has pitted areas.

Considerations for Children

• This lichen sometimes has pitted areas.

Quirky Facts

• Eric Hultén's "Flora of Alaska and Neighboring Territories" (1968) is a valuable resource for information about this lichen and other plants in the region.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Lichens, including Hulten's pitted lichen, are sometimes mistaken for moss and may be consumed by animals.

Further Information

• USDA PLANTS database
• Catalogue of Life: 2012 Annual Checklist
• Eric Hultén's "Flora of Alaska and Neighboring Territories" (1968)