Question: I believe I may have found Iceland Moss, but I am not certain. I have only found it growing in …
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Question
I believe I may have found Iceland Moss, but I am not certain. I have only found it growing in one location in a park in Boston, MA. When it rains or snows, the lichen becomes colorful and somewhat rubbery to touch (see photos). During dry spells, the lichen is crunchy and brownish in color, but greener at moister at the base. If it is Iceland Moss, how common is it in eastern Massachusetts? Thank you!
Answer
Dear Wolf-face, Go Botany is a website dedicated to wild tracheophytes (i.e., higher vascular plants) in New England. Lichens are a symbiosis of an alga and a fungus. I'm sorry to write that these organisms are out of my realm of expertise. You might want locate botanists who specialize in these life forms to help you with your question. Often local mycological organizations have members who are interested in lichens. Best wishes.
