Squamarina pachylepidea
Local name: dvärgplacodlav
Photo: iNaturalist: (c) Annie Evankow, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Annie Evankow
Overview
Squamarina pachylepidea is a small crustose lichen species with thick, scale-like thallus segments that form grayish to brownish patches on rock surfaces. This slow-growing lichen plays an important ecological role as a pioneer species in harsh environments, contributing to soil formation and providing microhabitats for invertebrates in rocky ecosystems.
Squamarina pachylepidea faces severe decline due to habitat loss from coastal development, quarrying, and infrastructure projects that destroy its specialized limestone substrates. Air pollution and climate change further threaten this sensitive lichen species by altering the specific microclimate conditions it requires for survival.
Habitat
This lichen typically colonizes exposed calcareous rocks, limestone outcrops, and weathered concrete surfaces in open, well-lit environments. It shows preference for slightly basic substrates with good air circulation, often found on cliff faces, stone walls, and rocky slopes at various elevations.
Other threatened species in Stereocaulaceae
Frequently asked questions
Why is dvärgplacodlav classified as Endangered?
Where does dvärgplacodlav live?
What are the main threats to dvärgplacodlav?
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