Synonyms: Baeomyces pyxidatus, Cenomyce neglecta, Cenomyce pyxidata, Cladonia chlorophaea, Cladonia conchata, Cladonia epiphylla, Cladonia floccida, Cladonia neglecta, Lichen pyxidatus, Scyphophorus pyxidatus.
Common name: Pebbled Pixie Cup.
Cladonia pyxidata is a species of cup lichen that forms small, yellow-green to grayish cushions or patches on soil, rocks, and decaying wood. In East and Central Texas, it is commonly found in open woods, rocky outcrops, and along trails, often growing in association with mosses and other lichens. It typically thrives in areas with full sun to partial shade and well-drained acidic soils. The species is characterized by its small, cup-like apothecia that are usually 1-3 mm in diameter and contain a yellow to brownish disc.
Pebbled pixie-cup lichen (Cladonia pyxidata) between rocks on a sandstone outcrop at Lake Somerville Trailway near Birch Creek Unit of Somerville Lake State Park. Texas, January 26, 2020
Lake Somerville Trailway, Somerville, TX 77879, USAThe pebbled pixie-cup lichen (Cladonia pyxidata) was observed growing between rocks on a sandstone outcrop at Lake Somerville Trailway near Birch Creek Unit of Somerville Lake State Park in East and Central Texas. On January 26, 2020, the species was found thriving in this environment, suggesting its ability to tolerate and adapt to the local conditions. The lichen's presence in this area indicates a moderate level of humidity and stable temperatures, which are likely provided by the shaded and protected location between the rocks. The observation highlights the species' preference for well-drained substrates and partial shade, allowing it to flourish in areas with limited vegetation. This finding contributes to the understanding of Cladonia pyxidata's ecological requirements and distribution in East and Central Texas. Further observations are necessary to fully understand its range and abundance in the region.
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