Hammered Shield Lichen Parmelia saxatilis
Identification
This lichen has gray lobes with hammered texture.
Location
Uncommon statewide
Size
Two to six inch patches
Diet
It absorbs nutrients from air and rain.
Habitat
It occurs on cliffs and boulders.
Activity Period
Year round
Behavior
It grows mainly on rock surfaces. It persists through winter.
Lifecycle
Reproduction occurs through soredia.
Population
The population is stable but localized.
History
It has long been present in Ohio.
Human Interactions
It rarely interacts with humans.
Facts
Its surface looks hammered by tiny blows.
Sources
ODNR NatureServe
Airborne nutrients moisture | Rocks boulders cliffs | Scattered statewide