Elegant Camouflage Lichen
Melanohalea elegantula
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Melanohalea_elegantula
Overview
Melanohalea elegantula, commonly known as the elegant camouflage lichen, is a species of foliose lichen in the family Parmeliaceae. It was first described by Alexander Zahlbruckner in 1894 as Parmelia aspidota var. elegantula. Hungarian lichenologist Ödön Szatala promoted it to full species status, as Parmelia elegantula, in 1930. Theodore Esslinger transferred it to the genus Melanelia in 1978. Finally, it was assigned to the newly circumscribed genus Melanohalea in 2004.
Elegant sköldlav faces significant threats from air pollution, particularly nitrogen deposition and sulfur compounds that alter its sensitive epiphytic habitat requirements. Climate change and habitat fragmentation through deforestation and urban development further compromise the specific microclimate conditions this lichen species requires for survival.
Habitat
This epiphytic lichen species grows on the bark of deciduous and coniferous trees in mature forests, particularly favoring areas with stable humidity and clean air conditions. It typically occurs in old-growth and semi-natural woodland habitats at various elevations where suitable host trees and appropriate microclimate conditions persist.
Other threatened species in Parmeliaceae
Frequently asked questions
Why is Elegant Camouflage Lichen classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Elegant Camouflage Lichen live?
What are the main threats to Elegant Camouflage Lichen?
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