Rocky Crater Lichen
VU

Rocky Crater Lichen

Diploschistes scruposus

Unknown

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diploschistes_scruposus

Overview

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

Rocky Crater Lichen faces significant pressure from air pollution, particularly nitrogen deposition and sulfur compounds that alter the chemical composition of its rocky substrates. Climate change poses an additional threat through increased temperature extremes and altered precipitation patterns that affect the delicate moisture balance required for lichen survival. Habitat degradation from quarrying activities and recreational rock climbing in some locations further fragments already limited suitable habitat.

Threat summary

Habitat

This crustose lichen grows exclusively on exposed calcareous rocks, limestone outcrops, and weathered concrete surfaces in open, well-lit environments. It typically colonizes vertical or near-vertical rock faces where it can access adequate light while avoiding excessive moisture accumulation.

TERRESTRIAL· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Rocky Crater Lichen classified as Vulnerable?
Rocky Crater 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. Rocky Crater Lichen faces significant pressure from air pollution, particularly nitrogen deposition and sulfur compounds that alter the chemical composition of its rocky substrates. Climate change poses an additional threat through increased temperature extremes and altered precipitation patterns that affect the delicate moisture balance required for lichen survival. Habitat degradation from quarrying activities and recreational rock climbing in some locations further fragments already limited suitable habitat.
Where does Rocky Crater Lichen live?
Rocky Crater 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 Rocky Crater Lichen?
The main threats to Rocky Crater 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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