Calicium trachylioides
Local name: grå ladlav
Photo: Photo: (c) Lauren, all rights reserved, uploaded by Lauren
Overview
Calicium trachylioides, known as grå ladlav (gray pin lichen), is a small crustose lichen species characterized by its grayish thallus and distinctive pin-like fruiting bodies (mazaedia) that release powdery spores. This specialized lichen plays an important ecological role in nutrient cycling and serves as a microhabitat for various invertebrates in old-growth forest ecosystems.
Calicium trachylioides, a rare crustose lichen species, faces severe decline primarily due to habitat loss from deforestation and air pollution. The species requires very specific substrate conditions on old-growth trees, making it extremely vulnerable to forest management practices and environmental changes.
Habitat
This lichen grows exclusively on the bark of old deciduous trees, particularly favoring ancient oaks and other hardwoods in undisturbed forest stands. It requires stable microclimatic conditions with high humidity and minimal disturbance, typically found in the interior of old-growth forests with continuous canopy cover.
Other threatened species in Caliciaceae
Frequently asked questions
Why is grå ladlav classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does grå ladlav live?
What are the main threats to grå ladlav?
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