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orange lichen
Scientific Name: Caloplaca pinicola
Family: Teloschistaceae
Category: Lichen
Growth: Lichenous
Duration:
Other Names:
Xanthoria parietina: Common Orange Lichen
Xanthoria parietina is a foliose (leafy) lichen known by several common names, including common orange lichen, yellow scale, maritime sunburst lichen, orange lichen, and orange wall lichen. It is easily recognizable by its bright coloration and wide distribution.
Considerations for Pets
- This lichen commonly grows on rocks, concrete, and trees, potentially making it accessible to pets in outdoor environments.
Considerations for Children
- The bright orange or yellow color of this lichen might be attractive to children.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Xanthoria parietina
- Common Names: Common orange lichen, yellow scale, maritime sunburst lichen, orange lichen, orange wall lichen, sunburst lichen.
- Family: Teloschistaceae
- Xanthoria is a genus of lichenized fungi.
Distribution and Habitat
- Xanthoria parietina has a wide distribution.
- It is commonly found on rocks, concrete, and trees, especially near cattle farms due to its preference for ammonia.
- It can also be found in coastal areas and mountainous regions.
Morphological Characteristics
- Xanthoria parietina is a foliose lichen, forming large, rounded patches up to 10 cm across.
- It has wide, round-lipped marginal lobes.
- The thallus (body) ranges in color from yellowish-green to golden-yellow or orange, and may appear grey in shaded conditions.
- The fruiting structure has a dark orange disc surrounded by a lighter edge.
Ecological Role
- Xanthoria parietina can be prolific in certain environments.
- It may be found below white and grey lichens, forming an orange lichen belt.
- It is tolerant of certain conditions, such as those found in seabird colonies and on hunting perches of birds.
- It may colonize shrubs, potentially inhibiting new growth.
Quirky Facts
- The orange color of this lichen is due to the production of the pigment parietin.
- Pigments from colorful lichens like Xanthoria parietina can be extracted by boiling and used to dye wool and other fibers.
- Parietin, the orange pigment, may have potential as an anti-cancer drug.