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orange lichen

Scientific Name: Caloplaca verruculifera

Family: Teloschistaceae

Category: Lichen

Growth: Lichenous

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Xanthoria parietina: Common Orange Lichen

Xanthoria parietina is a widely distributed foliose (leafy) lichen with several common names, including common orange lichen, yellow scale, and maritime sunburst lichen. It is known for its vibrant color and prevalence in various environments.

Considerations for Pets

  • This lichen often grows on rocks, concrete, and trees, including near cattle farms, suggesting it is commonly found outdoors.

Considerations for Children

  • This lichen often grows on rocks, concrete, and trees, including near cattle farms, suggesting it is commonly found outdoors.
  • The pigments of orange, red, and brown lichens can be extracted by boiling and used to dye wool and other fibers.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Xanthoria parietina
  • Family: Teloschistaceae
  • Genus: Xanthoria
  • Common Names: Common orange lichen, yellow scale, maritime sunburst lichen, orange lichen, orange wall lichen, sunburst lichen
  • Related Species: Xanthoria elegans (elegant sunburst lichen), Xanthoria polycarpa (pincushion orange lichen), Xanthoria ligulata

Distribution and Habitat

  • Xanthoria parietina has a wide distribution.
  • It is found on rocks, concrete, and trees, especially near cattle farms due to its preference for ammonia.
  • Common on coastal rocks in New Zealand.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Foliose lichen, forming large, rounded patches up to 10 cm across.
  • Has wide, round-lipped marginal lobes.
  • The thallus color ranges from yellowish-green to golden-yellow or orange, and can appear grey in shaded conditions.
  • Lacks isidia or soredia.
  • Apothecia are usually present.

Ecological Role

  • Often found in abundance in areas with high ammonia concentrations.
  • May identify hunting perches of birds and grow in profusion in seabird habitats.

Quirky Facts

  • The orange color of Xanthoria parietina is due to the production of the pigment parietin.
  • Parietin, found in lichens and rhubarb, may have potential as an anti-cancer drug.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Lichens are formed from a symbiotic association between a fungus and an alga.
  • The alga Trentepohlia can appear as a vivid orange powdery deposit on trees.

Further Information

  • "Microchemical Methods for the Identification of Lichens" by Alan Orange is a helpful resource.