Best Green Lichen
The Merveille du jour (Dichonia aprilina) is a species of moth in the family Noctuidae found throughout Europe. It is recognized by its distinctive forewings, which are patterned with bright green and black mottling that provides camouflage against lichen-covered tree bark. This cryptic coloration a...
Why this score?
Brilliant lichen-green camouflage, intricate black marbling, and longstanding lepidopterist admiration establish it as a best-in-class European moth.
Scoring methodology
Griposia aprilina, commonly known as Merveille du Jour, is a European noctuid moth. It’s notable for its exceptional camouflage mimicking lichen growth on oak trees. This green and white coloration protects it from predators. The moth is primarily observed in Britain and Ireland and is of interest t...
Flavoparmelia caperata, commonly called the green shield lichen, is a foliose lichen with broad, rounded lobes and a yellow-green to gray-green upper surface. It commonly grows on the bark and branches of trees, and it can also occur on wood or rock. The wrinkled lobes and shield-like outline make i...
Why this score?
Large yellow-green rosettes, widespread familiarity, pollution sensitivity, and easy identification make it a naturalist staple.
Scoring methodology
Porina chlorotica is a smooth crustose lichen identifiable by its pale greenish tint and tiny black perithecia on bark, organized by Johannes Müller Argoviensis in 1883.
Why this score?
Pale green crust and tiny black perithecia provide modest contrast, with little cultural or ecological prominence.
Scoring methodology
