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Schaerer's orange lichen

Scientific Name: Caloplaca schaereri

Family: Teloschistaceae

Category: Lichen

Growth: Lichenous

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Schaerer's Orange Lichen (Caloplaca schaereri)

Discover information about Schaerer's Orange Lichen, a fascinating lichen species. Learn about its classification, distribution, and ecological role.

Considerations for Pets

  • This lichen is sometimes found growing on trees and rocks, which might be accessible to pets in gardens or natural environments.

Scientific Classification

  • Scientific Name: Caloplaca schaereri (Flörke) Zahlbr.
  • Common Name: Schaerer's Orange Lichen
  • Family: Teloschistaceae
  • Group: Lichen
  • Rank: Species
  • Synonyms: The text mentions several names connected to species or research related to the lichen but doesn't specifically offer synonyms for Caloplaca schaereri itself.

Distribution and Habitat

  • The lichen's native status is listed as NA (North America).
  • It is found on the trunk of oak trees.
  • It is mentioned in relation to various locations, including Silver Falls State Park, Mount Desert Island, and coastal schists of South Devon, suggesting a wide distribution.
  • It is also found on granitic and volcanic rocks.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Growth Habit: Lichenous
  • The text describes lichens as having a structure that is more elaborate and durable than either fungus or algae alone.
  • Lichens come in a wide range of colors including orange, chartreuse, black, and white.
  • Some are described as bright orange.

Ecological Role

  • The presence of orange lichens can distinguish zones within certain environments.
  • Lichens can grow on aging and fallen trees, contributing to decomposition and nutrient cycling.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Lichens consist of a symbiotic relationship between a fungus and algae.
  • It grows on oak trees along with other lichens, such as Flavoparmelia caperata and Punctelia rudecta.

Quirky Facts

  • An orange pigment found in lichens and rhubarb called parietin may have potential as an anti-cancer drug because it interferes with certain cellular processes.
  • In 1850, the Swiss botanist Schaerer was the first to recognize an unpigmented form of Mycoblastus sanguinarius.

Further Resources

  • USDA Plants Database
  • North American Lichen Checklist
  • Consortium of North American Lichen Herbaria
  • Garden Guides