The Daily Bucket is a nature refuge.
We amicably discuss animals, weather, climate, soil, plants, waters and note life’s patterns.
We invite you to note what you are seeing around you in your own part of the world, and to share your observations in the comments below.
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As the leaves fall and the trees become bare, new colors are seen on the trunks and limbs. Most of us don’t notice these small changes and even fewer make a career to study the lichens, moss, fungus (and diseases) of our woody neighbors. I admit, I haven’t studied these parasitic or symbiotic organisms either but have noticed them all my life. In just a few minutes time, I walked around my small acre and a half and took these photos. The diversity surprised me.
The frilly green lichen, on the left side of the title photo, is Usnea (aka Old Man’s Beard). It is an indicator that the air quality is very clean. On the right side of the stick is Parnelia, another lichen, that is present with less optimum air quality.
I found that Hypoxlon canker is often an indicator of stress to a tree (lightning in this case) but can emerge after severe drought, fire or insect infestation. The rust fungus and the Jelly fungus are taking advantage of damaged wood.
Another pair of photos showing different lichens living on the same tree.
This photo shows even more unusual organisms on a dead limb.
I found a few extra fungi on my walk back to the house. Here are some mushrooms on both dead limbs and the ground litter.
I had a delightful time outside even without seeing the most famous lichen. Spanish Moss grows in a more tropical environment. There will be movies shown this week with much of it used as a backdrop in swamp scenes and eerie settings. People will see it and not connect it to the very same family of lichens growing on their own trees. Take the time to look at nature and find wonder.
Thanks for stopping in.
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What’s up in nature in your area today?
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