Yellow Ribbon Lichen
CR

Yellow Ribbon Lichen

Usnocetraria oakesiana

Unknown

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

Overview

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

Yellow Ribbon Lichen faces severe threats from air pollution, particularly nitrogen deposition and sulfur compounds, which dramatically alter the chemical composition of its substrate and surrounding environment. Climate change is causing shifts in temperature and humidity patterns that disrupt the delicate balance this species requires for survival. Habitat loss through deforestation and urban development has eliminated many suitable locations where this lichen historically occurred.

Threat summary

Habitat

This lichen species typically grows on the bark of old-growth coniferous trees, particularly in cool, humid montane and boreal forests with minimal air pollution. It requires specific microclimate conditions with consistent moisture levels and clean air quality found in undisturbed forest ecosystems.

TERRESTRIAL· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Yellow Ribbon Lichen classified as Critically Endangered?
Yellow Ribbon Lichen is classified as Critically Endangered — facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild — because population sizes are very small, declining sharply, or restricted to a tiny range. Yellow Ribbon Lichen faces severe threats from air pollution, particularly nitrogen deposition and sulfur compounds, which dramatically alter the chemical composition of its substrate and surrounding environment. Climate change is causing shifts in temperature and humidity patterns that disrupt the delicate balance this species requires for survival. Habitat loss through deforestation and urban development has eliminated many suitable locations where this lichen historically occurred.
Where does Yellow Ribbon Lichen live?
Yellow Ribbon 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 Yellow Ribbon Lichen?
The main threats to Yellow Ribbon 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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