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orange lichen

Scientific Name: Caloplaca xanthostigmoidea

Family: Teloschistaceae

Category: Lichen

Growth: Lichenous

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Xanthoria parietina: Common Orange Lichen

Xanthoria parietina is a foliose, or leafy, lichen with a wide distribution. It's often recognized by its vibrant color and preference for growing in areas with high ammonia levels, such as near cattle farms.

Common Names

  • Common Orange Lichen
  • Yellow Scale
  • Maritime Sunburst Lichen
  • Orange Wall Lichen
  • Sunburst Lichen
  • Golden Shield Lichen
  • Shore Lichen

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Genus: Xanthoria
  • Family: Teloschistaceae
  • Rank: Genus of lichenized fungi

Distribution and Habitat

  • Has a wide distribution, found on rocks, concrete, and trees.
  • Common near coastal areas (Maritime Sunburst Lichen).
  • Favors areas with ammonia, such as near cattle farms.
  • Can be found in mountainous areas and deserts.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Foliose (leafy) 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 may appear grey in shade.
  • Lacks isidia or soredia (structures for asexual reproduction).
  • Apothecia (fruiting bodies) are usually present, with a dark orange disc surrounded by a lighter edge.

Ecological Role and Interactions

  • Lichens, including Xanthoria parietina, are dual organisms formed from a symbiotic association between a fungus and an alga.
  • Xanthoria elegans is highly tolerant of environmental factors and may identify hunting perches of birds and grow in profusion in seabird colonies.
  • Algae, lichens and moss often form green or grey, powdery or mossy, crusty growths.

Quirky Facts

  • The orange color of this lichen is due to the production of the pigment parietin.
  • Pigments can be extracted by boiling and used to dye wool and other fibers.
  • An orange pigment found in lichens and rhubarb called parietin may have potential as an anti-cancer drug.

Further Information

  • Katja Schulz marked "Common orange lichen 3" as trusted on the "Xanthoria parietina" page.
  • Referenced: Microchemical Methods for the Identification of Lichens by Alan Orange