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Unknown crustose, maybe Ramboldia gowardiana?

  • 28 Jun 2016 1:37 PM
    Message # 4106341

    I came across this lichen in the MT biocrust that didn't ring a bell for any biocrust genera I am familiar with (pictures in gallery). I was thumbing through the California Lichens crustose section and came across Ramboldia gowardiana, which superficially looked like it. I know that species is supposed to be on wood, but this was in a draw and perhaps it is growing on decaying wood of its preferred tree species. The spores fit generally (although I can't measure them right now), the thallus is PD+R. Could this be right, or does anyone have other suggestions?

    Thanks!

    Last modified: 28 Jun 2016 1:37 PM | Rebecca Durham
  • 29 Jun 2016 7:38 AM
    Reply # 4107184 on 4106341
    Bruce McCune (Administrator)

    Rebecca, I don't know if the colors in the photo are accurate, but this doesn't look red enough to be Ramboldia. Also, It looks like the spores might be 1-septate but occluded by oil drops. You can try to clear them by gently heating the slide over a lighter (stop short of boiling) or use K. If they are not septate I would try Protoblastenia; if septate, then Caloplaca. In either case the epithecium should be K+ red.

  • 30 Jun 2016 8:36 AM
    Reply # 4109224 on 4106341

    Thanks Bruce, I will give it another look. With fire! Lichens are so exciting!

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