Click on map to open large map in new window
(Map updated: 11 August 2009)

This soil-inhabiting crustose lichen is a soft, granular grey turning to green when wet. It has orange-pink discs (flat and broad or convex) which stand out clearly in the field against the thallus. It is a species of upland and moorland habitats, especially of peaty soil and damp tracks. A dab of fresh bleach (C) has no effect on colour. Mainly north-west Ireland; scattered elsewhere.

Key characteristics

• The flat or convex pink discs on a grey or green thallus overgrowing peaty soil are distinctive
• The discs are not stalked as in Dibaeis baeomyces which forms crusts with white or pink granules.

Original text submitted by Vince J. Giavarini