description Lobaria pulmonaria Overview
Lobaria pulmonaria, commonly called lungwort, is a large foliose lichen with broad, lobed thallus segments marked by a network of ridges that can resemble lung tissue. It grows mainly on the bark of mature trees and, less often, on shaded rock in humid forests. The lichen contains cyanobacteria that can fix atmospheric nitrogen, and its sensitivity to air pollution makes it useful as an indicator of long-standing woodland continuity.
help Lobaria pulmonaria FAQ
Why is Lobaria pulmonaria called lungwort?
Its broad lobes and network of raised ridges can resemble lung tissue. The scientific name is Lobaria pulmonaria, while lungwort is its common name.
Where does Lobaria pulmonaria usually grow?
It mainly grows on the bark of mature trees in humid, shaded forests. It can also occur on shaded rock when moisture levels are suitable.
Is Lobaria pulmonaria a leafy lichen?
Yes, it is a large foliose lichen with broad, lobed thallus segments. That leafy form contrasts with the hair-like or branched appearance of many fruticose lichens.
How is Lobaria pulmonaria different from reindeer lichen?
Lobaria pulmonaria usually forms broad lobes on mature tree bark, whereas Cladonia rangiferina forms pale branching tufts on acidic ground. The two species also belong to different growth forms, foliose and fruticose.
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