Pilophorus robustus #

Taxon #

Pilophorus robustus

Organization #

Matchstick Lichens

Identification #

This light gray to light green matchstick lichen has multiple clustered apothecia at the end of each pseudopodetia. This species might be mistaken for Cladonia cariosa or another species of Pilophorus if young or underdeveloped. Apothecia blackened rather than dark brown and lacking longitudinal fissures help to separate from C. cariosa.

Substrate #

Saxicolous and on gravels (CLH)

Chemical Tests #

K+ yellow (CLH)

Notes #

Not known of SE Alaska although interestingly it has been collected not far away in western British Columbia. Widespread throughout mainland Alaska north and west of but not including the Chugach Range. Found also in the Aleutian Islands (CLH).