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Chaenothecopsis Lichen

Chaenothecopsis is a genus of lichenized and non-lichenized fungi belonging to the family Mycocaliciaceae. The common name often used is "chaenothecopsis lichen," although it's important to note that some species within this genus are not actually lichens.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Chaenothecopsis Vain. (Vainio, 1927)
• Rank: Genus
• Family: Mycocaliciaceae
• Kingdom: Fungi (based on the text referring to it as a fungus)
• Synonyms: Calicium debile (for Chaenothecopsis debilis)
• Alternative Scientific Names Mentioned:
  • Chaenothecopsis pusilla (Ach.) A.F.W. Schmidt, 1970
  • Chaenothecopsis rubescens Vainio, 1927

Distribution and Habitat

• Species of Chaenothecopsis have been found in various locations, including:
  • Greater Sonoran Desert Region
  • Colombia (Chaenothecopsis debilis)
  • China, Yunnan (Chaenothecopsis rubescens)
  • Norway
  • British Columbia, Canada (on wood of Thuja)

Ecological Role

• Many Chaenothecopsis species are described as parasitic or commensals on lichens or free-living algae. Some are found on dead wood.

Morphological Characteristics

• The genus is characterized by a stalked capitulum lacking a mazaedium and short asci.
• Some species are resinicolous (growing on resin).

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Species within Chaenothecopsis are known to be parasitic on lichens.

Quirky Facts

• While often referred to as a lichen, some Chaenothecopsis species are, in fact, non-lichenized fungi, meaning they do not have a symbiotic relationship with algae or cyanobacteria.

Resources and Further Information

• PLANTS Database (plants.usda.gov)
• MushroomObserver.org
• Nordic Lichen Flora 1: 20-94
• British Lichen Society
• Te Papa Media Sales and Licensing (for images)