Synonyms: Pseudopyrenula tropica, Pyrenula tropica, Sagedia tropica, Spermatodium tropicum, Trypethelium tropicum, Verrucaria tropica.
Common name: speckled blister lichen.
Nigrovothelium tropicum is a crustose lichen that grows on tree bark and rock surfaces. In East and Central Texas, it has been found on a variety of substrates, including oak, cedar, and limestone. The thallus is gray to brownish-gray, with numerous black perithecia. It is a relatively rare species in the region, but can be locally common in areas with high humidity and moderate to low light levels.
Speckled blister lichen Trypethelium tropicum (Nigrovothelium tropicum) on bark of hackberry tree in Lick Creek Park. College Station, Texas, January 1, 2019
Raccoon Run, College Station, TX 77845, USA
Speckled blister lichen Trypethelium tropicum (Nigrovothelium tropicum) with black perithecia on bark of hackberry tree in Lick Creek Park. College Station, Texas, January 1, 2019Raccoon Run, College Station, TX 77845, USA
Speckled blister lichen Trypethelium tropicum (Nigrovothelium tropicum) on a tree in Lick Creek Park. College Station, Texas, February 20, 2019Raccoon Run, College Station, TX 77845, USAObservations of Nigrovothelium tropicum in East and Central Texas reveal its presence on various trees, particularly hackberry trees, in Lick Creek Park, College Station. On January 1, 2019, the lichen was found on the bark of a hackberry tree, displaying characteristic speckled blister features. A closer examination revealed black perithecia, indicating the lichen's reproductive structures. Further observations on February 20, 2019, confirmed the presence of Nigrovothelium tropicum on another tree in the same park, suggesting its adaptability to different hosts. The consistent sightings in Lick Creek Park suggest that this species is well-established in the area, likely due to favorable environmental conditions. The observations highlight the importance of monitoring lichen populations to understand their distribution and ecological roles in East and Central Texas ecosystems.
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