Lichen: Solenospora vulturiensis
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Name: Solenospora vulturiensis A.Massal.
Apothecia are rare and variable when present.
The grey-green thallus squamules may be scattered or compact.
Pronunciation: Solenopora vulturensis
Conservation Evaluation: Least Concern
Body Type: Crustose, squamulose
VC Map Solenospora vulturiensis
Description: This is a highly variable species, yet is easy enough to identify. Variability occurs in the thallus colour and texture and in the structure of the apothecia. The thallus is composed of squamulose lobes either crowded tightly together or scattered loosely across the substrate. Colour varies from blue-grey-white to olive-green, green becoming prominent when the specimen is wet. Variability in the apothecia is significant; they are globular and may or may not have a thalline margin, the disc may be light brown with a pink tint. The thalline margin may be excluded as the disc grows over it. The tips of the squamules may develop a white powder (soralia).
Chemical Tests: KC+ watery yellow, Pd-, Uv-, K+ watery yellow, C-.
Nature Notes: Typically found in coastal habitats in sunny nutrient rich calcareous situations. Often on coastal rock in tiny cracks where run-off water travels. Also found inland on old churches and walls.
Vice county distribution map: See Map
Link: Map this species on the Lichen Survey
Other species recorded in Ireland:
Solenopsora candicans (Dicks.) J.Steiner
Solenopsora holophaea (Mont.) Samp.
Text and images © Paul Whelan, 2009.