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(Map updated: 11 August 2009)

This is a truly calcicole, Cladonia species with cup-carrying stems (podetia). It is easily identified by the scaly base which fuses into a platy plinth above which the cups are raised. It occurs mainly among short, well-grazed calcareous grassland where it is a frequent host to Diploschistes muscorum, a lichen species parasitic on it. It is common in suitable habitats throughout Ireland.

Key characteristics

• The habitat and the large scales (squamules) flattened to the substrate, indicate this species (which is not always fertile)
• Look for it on sandy, calcareous soils or around limestone outcrops, especially near the sea or above dunes.

Original text submitted by Simon Davey