VU

Powdered Fringe Lichen

Heterodermia speciosa

Unknown

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Heterodermia speciosa faces severe decline from air pollution, particularly nitrogen deposition and sulfur compounds that alter its substrate chemistry and disrupt symbiotic relationships. Urban expansion and industrial development have eliminated many historical populations through direct habitat destruction and increased atmospheric contamination. Climate change compounds these pressures by altering moisture regimes essential for this epiphytic lichen's survival.

Threat summary

Habitat

This epiphytic lichen grows on the bark of deciduous trees in mature forests, particularly favoring oak and maple species in areas with high humidity and clean air. It requires stable microclimatic conditions found in old-growth or semi-natural woodland environments with minimal atmospheric pollution.

TERRESTRIAL· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Powdered Fringe Lichen classified as Vulnerable?
Powdered Fringe Lichen is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Heterodermia speciosa faces severe decline from air pollution, particularly nitrogen deposition and sulfur compounds that alter its substrate chemistry and disrupt symbiotic relationships. Urban expansion and industrial development have eliminated many historical populations through direct habitat destruction and increased atmospheric contamination. Climate change compounds these pressures by altering moisture regimes essential for this epiphytic lichen's survival.
Where does Powdered Fringe Lichen live?
Powdered Fringe Lichen occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Powdered Fringe Lichen?
The main threats to Powdered Fringe Lichen are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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