Cladina Rangiferina, Reindeer Lichen

Day 185: Cladina rangiferina is one of several species erroneously referred to as "reindeer moss." While it is consumed by caribou, reindeer and other ungulates as a major component in their diets, only the "reindeer" portion of its common name is accurate. "Moss" is incorrect. Cladina rangiferina is in fact a lichen. Like many members of its genus, it prefers a habitat of thin soil, often colonizing where nothing but moss and other lichens grow. It can be identified by branch tips which appear to be combed to one side. The branches frequently exhibit brown pycnidia on their tips. At Longmire Campground, it occurs in abundance in open areas.