SafePlants

No images found for this plant ID: 9342.

Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "9342" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.

Safe for Children?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

Safe for Dogs?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

Safe for Cats?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

Safe for Reptiles?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

giant shield lichen

Scientific Name: Cetrelia monachorum

Family: Parmeliaceae

Category: Lichen

Growth: Lichenous

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Giant Shield Lichen (Cetrelia monachorum)

The Giant Shield Lichen, scientifically known as Cetrelia monachorum, is a fascinating lichen species that often goes unnoticed. Its pale whitish to greenish-gray appearance allows it to blend seamlessly into its environment.

Considerations for Pets

  • Lichens can grow on various surfaces, including trees and rocks, potentially accessible to pets in outdoor environments.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Cetrelia monachorum
  • Common Name: Giant Shield Lichen
  • Kingdom: Plantae (though lichens are not plants, this is where the information places it)
  • Family: Parmeliaceae
  • Genus: Cetrelia
  • Synonyms:
    • Cetrelia olivetorum (Nyl.) W.L.Culb. & C.F.Culb.
    • Cetraria chicitae Culb.
    • Cetrelia chicitae (Culb.) Culb. & C. Culb.
    • Parmelia cetrarioides var. rubescens (Th. Fr.) Du Rietz
    • Cetrelia cetrarioides (as labeled on a herbarium specimen, though likely a misidentification)

Distribution and Habitat

  • The Giant Shield Lichen has been observed in various locations.
  • A herbarium specimen notes its presence "On tree in Drummond woods."
  • Chicita's giant shield lichen has been found in Ashe County, North Carolina.
  • Primarily an epiphytic lichen.
  • Significant presence in northern Quebec.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Visible from a distance as a large pale whitish to greenish gray.
  • Lichenous growth habit.
  • Perforate apothecia with large, ellipsoid spores and bifusiform conidia.

Quirky Facts

  • Common names for lichen can be the same as the genus name.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Likely consumed by some organisms, as literature mentions "moss" being eaten, which may refer to lichen species.
  • The Giant Lichen Orbweaver (Araneus bicentenarius) is named for its camouflage on lichen.

Further Information

  • Catalogue of Life: 2012 Annual Checklist
  • Australian Plant Names Index