Gold cobblestone lichens
Scientific name: Pleopsidium
Gold cobblestone lichens
Scientific name: Pleopsidium
Photo By Jennifer Rycenga , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Gold cobblestone lichens are often found in harsh, extreme environments like high mountains or arid regions. This lichen forms bright yellow-orange patches that can make rocky surfaces appear golden. The vibrant color is due to specialized pigments that protect gold cobblestone lichens from intense sunlight. They are incredibly resilient and can survive in conditions where few other organisms thrive, such as scorching deserts or frosty tundras. The pigmentation also reflects ultraviolet light, minimizing damage from high UV exposure.
Species of Gold cobblestone lichens
Photo By Jennifer Rycenga , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Sac fungi Class
Lecanoromycetes Order
Acarosporales Family
Acarosporaceae Genus
Gold cobblestone lichens