Hooded Ribbon Lichen
Ramalina obtusata
Photo: Photo: (c) Samuel Brinker, all rights reserved, uploaded by Samuel Brinker
Overview
The Hooded Ribbon Lichen (Ramalina obtusata) is a fruticose lichen species characterized by its distinctive flattened, ribbon-like thalli that form pendant clusters resembling miniature curtains. This epiphytic lichen plays a crucial ecological role as a bioindicator of air quality and provides habitat and food sources for various invertebrates and small mammals.
Hooded Ribbon Lichen (Ramalina obtusata) is critically endangered primarily due to air pollution, particularly sulfur dioxide and nitrogen compounds that severely impact lichen survival. Habitat loss from coastal development and climate change effects including altered precipitation patterns and increased storm intensity further threaten the remaining populations of this sensitive epiphytic species.
Habitat
Ramalina obtusata grows exclusively on the bark of mature deciduous trees, particularly favoring oak, maple, and ash species in humid temperate forests. The species requires specific microclimatic conditions found in old-growth forest canopies where air circulation is optimal and pollution levels remain minimal.
Other threatened species in Ramalinaceae
Frequently asked questions
Why is Hooded Ribbon Lichen classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Hooded Ribbon Lichen live?
What are the main threats to Hooded Ribbon Lichen?
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