Rock Tripe Umbilicaria mammulata

Identification
This lichen has dark leathery lobes attached at a single point.

Location
Uncommon in Ohio

Size
Three to ten inch lobes

Diet
It absorbs nutrients from air and rain.

Habitat
It occurs in rocky gorges and cliffs.

Activity Period
Year round

Behavior
It grows on exposed rock faces. It persists through winter.

Lifecycle
Reproduction occurs through spores.

Population
The population is stable but limited.

History
It has long been known in Ohio.

Human Interactions
It is not harmful and sometimes edible when boiled.

Facts
It can survive extreme drought.

Sources
ODNR academic sources

Airborne nutrients moisture | Rock faces cliffs | Southern and eastern Ohio