Psorinia
| Psorinia | |
|---|---|
Scientific classification 
| |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Fungi |
| Division: | Ascomycota |
| Class: | Lecanoromycetes |
| Order: | Lecanorales |
| Family: | Lecanoraceae |
| Genus: | Psorinia Gotth. Schneid. |
| Type species | |
| Psorinia conglomerata (Ach.) Gotth. Schneid.
| |
Psorinia is a genus of fungi in the family Lecanoraceae.[1] This genus was first described by the French botanist Louis René Tulasne in 1852. The type species of this genus is Psorinia tenuis.
The members of Psorinia are found growing on rocks, soil, and tree bark in temperate regions of the world. They are crustose lichens with a thallus that is typically pale gray to yellowish-gray in color, and often forms small, irregularly shaped patches. The thallus of Psorinia lacks any kind of cortex, and the upper surface is typically covered with small, powdery granules called soredia.
The apothecia, or fruiting bodies, of Psorinia are typically disk-shaped and can be either sessile or stalked. They are typically small, with a diameter of less than 1 mm. The apothecia are usually pale to dark brown in color and have a margin that is often lighter than the center. The spores of Psorinia are typically ellipsoid or ovoid in shape and have a smooth surface.
There are currently around 20 species of Psorinia that have been described. Some notable species include Psorinia athroocarpa, Psorinia confusa, Psorinia complanata, Psorinia glomerulans, Psorinia incrassata, and Psorinia leucophaea.
Psorinia species have been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory infections, skin disorders, and digestive problems. Some species have also been used in dyeing and tanning.
The taxonomy of Psorinia has been revised several times over the years, and the current classification is still being refined. Molecular data has helped to clarify the relationships between different species and genera within the family Lecanoraceae, and further studies are needed to fully understand the diversity and evolutionary history of this group of lichens.
Overall, Psorinia is a fascinating genus of lichens that have intrigued researchers and enthusiasts for many years. With ongoing research and discovery, there is much still to learn about these unique and important organisms.
References
- ^ Lumbsch TH, Huhndorf SM. (December 2007). "Outline of Ascomycota – 2007". Myconet. 13. Chicago, USA: The Field Museum, Department of Botany: 1–58.
External links
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