PROTECTING WISCONSIN'S BIODIVERSITY

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Scientific Name	Common Name	Global Rank	State Rank	Federal Status	WI Status

Oakmoss Lichen (Evernia prunastri)

State Status: SC

Federal Status: none

State Rank: S1

Global Rank: G5

Photo by Einar Timdal

Counties with Mapped NHI Occurrences

Oakmoss Lichen (Evernia prunastri), a Wisconsin Special Concern lichen, is found on conifer twigs in northern Wisconsin. Outside of Wisconsin it is more commonly found on deciduous trees and shrubs.

Identification

Oakmoss lichen is a fruticose lichen with apothecia that are rare but, if present, occur marginally and red-brown discs. Its thallus is tufted or pendant, green, yellow, or greyish above and blue-grey below. Shallow ridges visibly crisscross both thallus surfaces, its branches are linear and flattened.

Distinguishing Characteristics and Similar Species

It can be distinguished from similar species by flat (vs angular) branches and the color of its lower thallus surface, which is obviously paler than the upper surface.

Phenology and Reproduction

Phenology

Soralia are on branch margins and the upper thallus surface.

Habitat

Oakmoss lichen is found on conifer twigs in northern Wisconsin. Outside of Wisconsin it is more commonly found on deciduous trees and shrubs.

Associates include Abies balsamea, Pinus resinosa, and Picea species. This species is used in the perfume and cosmetics industry in Europe but is not common enough to support those uses in the US.

Wildlife Action Plan

Associated Natural Communities and Ecological Landscapes

Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) are associated with habitats (or natural communities) and places on the landscape. Understanding relationships among SGCN, natural communities and ecological landscapes help us make decisions about issues affecting SGCN and their habitat and how to respond. Download the Wildlife Action Plan association score spreadsheet to explore rare species, natural communities and ecological landscape associations

Issues/Threats and Conservation Actions

Conservation actions respond to issues or threats, which adversely affect species of greatest conservation need (SGCN) or their habitats. Besides actions such as restoring wetlands or planting resilient tree species in northern communities, research, surveys and monitoring are also among conservation actions described in the Wisconsin Wildlife Action Plan because lack of information can threaten our ability to successfully preserve and care for natural resources.

PROTECTING WISCONSIN'S BIODIVERSITY

Oakmoss Lichen (Evernia prunastri)

Rare Species & Natural Communities

Additional Resources

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