Lobaria pulmonaria #

Taxon #

Lobaria pulmonaria

Organization #

Lungworts, Peltigerales

Identification #

Light brown to grass green lichen with a rugose, lung-like texture. This species can be separated from the similar L. linita and L. tenuior by the presence of soredia. Apothecia are much less common in L. pulmonaria compared to L. linita and L. tenuior. L. pseudopulmonaria does not produce soredia or isidia and has a lower surface with some striking black and white contrast. The isidate forms of L. pulmonaria appear rare in Alaska and possibly restricted to the temperate rainforest.

Chemical Tests #

Medulla K+ yellow to red, KC-, C-, Pd+ yellow to orange (Brodo et al. 2001)

Substrate #

Most often corticolous but also commonly on rock or moss over rock in Alaska. Occasionally lignicolous.

Notes #

Ranging to the north slope of the Brooks Range. A species long known as being an indicator of clean air and old growth forest. Alaska is a stronghold for this species, one which has been extirpated or suffered range retractions in many other areas of its range globally.

Photos #