Stereocaulon Paschale

Day 176: Stereocaulon paschale is one of the "foam" lichens, and a walk through any area where it occurs will serve to justify the common name. It forms large patches which from a distance appear rather like the tidal froth found on ocean beaches. On closer examination, the "foam" resolves into tiny granular outgrowths resembling miniature cauliflower florets sprouting from pinkish stalks. It is often found in areas of old riverbed where stones and boulders have been overgrown with a thin layer of moss, its distinctive dusty blue-grey hue contrasting with brighter greens. Some older field guides refer to it as a subspecies of Stereocaulon tomentosum.