Parmelia Abrothallus Lichen: The Tiny Parasite You Probably Haven’t Noticed
Have you ever taken a close look at the crusty lichens growing on tree bark in your yard? If you have, you might have spotted tiny dark dots scattered across their surface without realizing you were looking at one of nature’s most specialized organisms: the parmelia abrothallus lichen (Abrothallus parmeliarum).
What Exactly Is Parmelia Abrothallus Lichen?
Here’s where things get interesting – this isn’t your typical lichen. Abrothallus parmeliarum is actually a parasitic lichen that makes its living by growing on other lichens, particularly those in the Parmelia genus (hence the name). Think of it as nature’s version of a lichen living on a lichen – it’s a parasitic relationship that’s both fascinating and incredibly specialized.
This tiny organism appears as small, dark, roundish spots that might be mistaken for dirt or damage on the host lichen’s surface. It’s so small and inconspicuous that most people walk right past it without a second glance.
Where You’ll Find This Tiny Parasite
Parmelia abrothallus lichen is native to North America and can be found across temperate regions of the continent. You’re most likely to spot it in areas with mature trees where its host lichens thrive – think established forests, older neighborhoods with large trees, and natural areas with good air quality.
Is It Beneficial to Your Garden?
While you can’t plant or cultivate this lichen (more on that in a moment), its presence in your garden is actually a good sign! Here’s why:
- It indicates healthy air quality in your area
- Its presence suggests a mature, stable ecosystem
- It’s part of the complex web of relationships that make natural environments thrive
- It contributes to biodiversity, even in small ways
However, don’t expect it to provide significant benefits to pollinators or wildlife – this is one of those organisms that plays a very specific, behind-the-scenes role in nature’s grand scheme.
How to Identify Parmelia Abrothallus Lichen
Spotting this tiny parasite requires a keen eye and maybe a magnifying glass. Here’s what to look for:
- Small, dark, circular or irregular spots on lichen surfaces
- Usually found on foliose lichens, especially Parmelia species
- Spots are typically 1-3mm in diameter
- Dark brown to black coloration
- Appears embedded in or growing from the host lichen’s surface
The easiest way to find it is to first locate the larger, leafy Parmelia lichens on tree bark, then examine them closely for these tiny dark spots.
Why You Can’t (and Shouldn’t Try to) Grow It
Unlike plants you can buy at a nursery, parmelia abrothallus lichen isn’t something you can cultivate. It requires very specific conditions and, most importantly, the presence of its host lichens to survive. It’s also incredibly slow-growing and sensitive to environmental changes.
The best thing you can do to encourage its presence is to:
- Maintain good air quality around your property
- Preserve mature trees with existing lichen communities
- Avoid using chemical sprays near trees
- Be patient – these organisms develop over many years
A Sign of Environmental Health
If you discover parmelia abrothallus lichen in your yard, congratulations! You’re looking at a indicator of relatively clean air and a healthy ecosystem. While it might not be the showiest addition to your landscape, it’s a reminder that some of nature’s most interesting relationships happen on a very small scale.
So next time you’re out in the garden, take a moment to look closely at those crusty lichens on your trees. You might just spot this tiny parasite going about its quiet business of being part of the incredible complexity we call nature.
