Nephroma occultum #

Taxon #

Nephroma occultum

Organization #

Kidney Lichens, Peltigerales

Identification #

A lichen with a tan to light green upper surface. Producing soredia, apothecia not yet known for the species, the soredia found along the margins of the lobes and on the ridges on the thalli which resemble other members of the Peltigerales (Lobaria, Nephroma, Peltigera). The upper surface is subtly browned at the lobe edges but conspicuously so on the underside. The lower surface is lacking in rhizines. (COSEWIC 2006).

Substrate #

Corticolous and ramicolous on conifers (Brodo et al. 2001)

Chemical Tests #

cortex: KC+ yellow; medulla: UV+ “pale yellow” (COSEWIC 2006)

Notes #

A lichen of conservation concern in Alaska. Known from Alaska near the coast, specimens found further inland in British Columbia. SE Region north to the Chugach Range (CLH).

COSEWIC 2006. COSEWIC assessment and update status report on the cryptic paw Nephroma occultum in Canada. Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. Ottawa. vi + 28 pp. (www.sararegistry.gc.ca/status/status_e.cfm).