Ciliate strap-lichen  (Heterodermia leucomela)

Learn about the scientific name of this species and how it fits into the tree of life at Nature Navigator.

Description

Ciliate strap-lichen has ribbon-like lobes (4) that are ivory white in colour (2), with long black projections at the edges (5). The lobes are upturned at the tips (5), and scramble over and amongst the surrounding vegetation (3). The lower surface of this lichen differs from the upper surface in that it is grooved, and has a powdery or cobweb-like centre (5). Indeed, the scientific name of this genus 'Heterodermia' means 'different skin' and refers to the contrast between the upper and lower surfaces of the lichen (5).

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