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Cladonia pleurota

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description Cladonia pleurota Overview

Cladonia pleurota is a species of lichen in the genus Cladonia. It has an upright, fruticose growth form with branching or cup-like podetia and is distinguished by red apothecia, which are reproductive structures that may occur at the ends or margins of the podetia. It is a ground-growing lichen associated with acidic substrates.

help Cladonia pleurota FAQ

What do the red spots on Cladonia pleurota represent?

They are red apothecia, which are the lichen's sexual reproductive structures. In Cladonia pleurota they commonly occur along the margins of the cup-like structures, creating the species' red-fruited appearance.

Does Cladonia pleurota have cups like a pixie-cup lichen?

Yes, Cladonia pleurota typically forms greenish or yellow-green podetia that may end in cup-shaped scyphi. The red apothecia on those cup margins help distinguish it from several other Cladonia species.

Is Cladonia pleurota a moss or a lichen?

It is a lichen in the genus Cladonia, not a moss. Its upright podetia are the visible secondary structures, while the lichen itself is a partnership between a fungus and a photosynthetic partner.

How can Cladonia pleurota be distinguished from similar red-fruited Cladonia species?

Look for the combination of yellow-green cup-bearing podetia, red apothecia, and a coarsely sorediate upper surface. A hand lens is useful because the surface texture and the degree of cortex at the base are important identification characters.

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