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Peltigera canina

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description Peltigera canina Overview

Peltigera canina, commonly called dog lichen, is a large foliose lichen that grows on soil, moss, and other ground surfaces. Its broad lobes are typically grey-brown and felted, with a pale underside and prominent veins. The lichen forms a symbiotic association with cyanobacteria, which can fix atmospheric nitrogen and contribute nitrogen compounds to the lichen system.

help Peltigera canina FAQ

Why is Peltigera canina called dog lichen?

Peltigera canina is commonly called dog lichen or dogtooth lichen because of its traditional common-name association with dogs. It is a large foliose lichen with broad, felted grey-brown lobes.

Where does Peltigera canina grow?

It usually grows on soil, moss, grassland, sandy ground, and other terrestrial surfaces rather than mainly on tree bark. The British Lichen Society records it from habitats including dry coastal grassland, dunes, heath, and inland grassland.

What is the cyanobacterium associated with Peltigera canina?

Peltigera canina forms an association with cyanobacteria in the genus Nostoc. That partnership allows the lichen to incorporate biologically fixed nitrogen into the surrounding ecosystem.

How can I distinguish Peltigera canina from a similar large foliose lichen?

Examine the underside: Peltigera species commonly show prominent veins, while the related genus Nephroma has a smoother lower surface. Peltigera canina also has a pale, felted underside and broad lobes that often spread across soil or moss.

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