description Nephroma arcticum Overview
Nephroma arcticum, known as Arctic kidney lichen, is a foliose lichen of Arctic and subarctic tundra, heath, and alpine habitats. Its broad lobes and kidney-like form are associated with a cyanobacterial photosynthetic partner, allowing the lichen to fix atmospheric nitrogen. It can contribute to the winter forage available to reindeer and other northern herbivores, although its importance varies with habitat and season.
help Nephroma arcticum FAQ
Why is Nephroma arcticum called Arctic kidney lichen?
The common name refers to its Arctic and subarctic range and its broad, kidney-like foliose lobes. Its shape is easier to appreciate when the leafy thallus is viewed from above on tundra or alpine ground.
Where does Nephroma arcticum grow?
It occurs in Arctic and subarctic tundra, heath, and alpine habitats. These open, cold environments differ sharply from the humid tree trunks favored by Lobaria virens.
How does Nephroma arcticum obtain nitrogen?
Nephroma arcticum has a cyanobacterial photosynthetic partner that can fix atmospheric nitrogen. This gives the lichen access to nitrogen in habitats where available soil nutrients may be limited.
Is Nephroma arcticum crustose or foliose?
It is a foliose lichen with broad lobes and a leafy thallus. Its ground-level growth and kidney-like form make it visually different from a crustose rock lichen such as Placopsis gelida.
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
