ExploreFungi

Wolf Lichen

letharia vulpina

Wolf Lichen is a bright greenish-yellow lichen that often grows on tree bark. It is a special plant that helps to tell us about the health of the forest!

Habitat: Wolf Lichen can be found in forests, especially on the bark of trees.

Appearance

The Wolf Lichen is a striking, bushy lichen with a vibrant chartreuse to greenish-yellow color. Its tangled, branch-like lobes often grow in clusters, resembling small, scraggly shrubs clinging to tree bark or old wood.

KingdomFungiPhylumAscomycotaClassLecanoromycetesOrderLecanoralesFamilyParmeliaceaeGenusLetharia
Wolf Lichen
solitary trait badgecolorful trait badgeherbivorous trait badgedecomposer trait badge
Wolf Lichen

Category

Fungi

Rarity

Common

Danger

0/5 · No known danger

Snaps

Be the first to snap!

Interesting facts

Historically, it was mixed with bait to poison wolves and foxes!

It's actually two organisms living together: a fungus and an alga! Wow!

People once used its bright yellow color to dye wool and textiles.

This tough lichen can live for hundreds of years on trees and rocks!

Special abilities

Ability

Toxic Shield

Wolf Lichen can produce a bitter, toxic acid that helps it defend against hungry animals trying to eat it.

Ability

Teamwork Power

Wolf Lichen has a superpower duo where algae make food and a fungus provides shelter, helping it thrive in tough places.

Ability

Desert Survivor

Wolf Lichen can dry out almost completely and then rehydrate when it rains, helping it survive long droughts.

Measurements & details

Height
3-7 cm
Spread
5-10 cm
Edible
No
Toxicity
Deadly
Lifecycle
Perennial

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

Deer LichenLichen of the WolfWolf Moss

Collections

Safety

Danger

0/5 · No known danger

No special safety notes yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is Wolf Lichen?

3-7 cm

How wide does Wolf Lichen spread?

5-10 cm

Is Wolf Lichen edible?

No

Is Wolf Lichen toxic?

Deadly

What is Wolf Lichen's lifecycle?

Perennial

Where is Wolf Lichen usually found?

Wolf Lichen can be found in forests, especially on the bark of trees.

Snap Map

Zoom in to split clusters and explore where this object has been snapped.

Loading map…

Recent Snaps

Recent snaps will appear here as new observations are added.

Where to spot

More Fungi