Day 132: In another venue, the lichen photo I posted yesterday sparked quite a discussion of where the "inactiva" part of the scientific name originated (Hypogymnia inactiva is also called "Inactive Tube Lichen" in some references, but Brodo is the recognized authority, so I have used "Mottled Tube Lichen" as the common name). I did some digging and found out that "inactive" lichens are those which can survive long periods of dry and/or cold weather. Growth ceases during stressful conditions and resumes only when sufficient warmth and moisture are available. It is always good to understand the taxonomy.
Here is another specimen of Hypogymnia inactiva showing the typical brownish-yellow apothecia fully open. It is growing on a downed limb of Red Alder (Alnus rubrum).
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