description Peltigera polydactylon Overview
Peltigera polydactylon is a foliose lichen that commonly grows on soil, moss, or other ground substrates in damp woodland and other moist habitats. Its thallus forms broad lobes, often with narrower, finger-like extensions, and the species has a cyanobacterium as its primary photosynthetic partner. It is useful for readers studying ground lichens and nitrogen-fixing lichen symbioses.
help Peltigera polydactylon FAQ
Where should I look for Peltigera polydactylon?
Search damp woodland ground, especially soil, moss, humus, and other soft organic substrates. It is a foliose ground lichen rather than a typical bark specialist.
What does the name polydactylon refer to?
It refers to the many finger-like extensions that can develop from the broad lobes of the thallus. Those divided, hand-like margins are a useful field clue, although Peltigera species can overlap in appearance.
Does Peltigera polydactylon contain cyanobacteria?
Yes. Its principal photobiont is a cyanobacterium, commonly associated with the genus Nostoc in Peltigera, so the lichen can gain fixed nitrogen as well as photosynthetic carbon.
How can Peltigera polydactylon be confused with other Peltigera species?
Broad leafy lobes occur in several Peltigera species, including Peltigera membranacea and Peltigera horizontalis. Identification usually combines lobe shape with the underside's veins, rhizines, tomentum, and fruiting structures rather than relying on color alone.
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