Xanthoparmelia arrecta
Xanthoparmelia arrecta is a species of foliose lichen in the family Parmeliaceae. It is endemic to Namibia, where it grows in semi-arid environments.
Taxonomy
It was first described by Theodore L. Esslinger in 2000, from samples collected in Namibia. The type specimen was collected in Namibia's Swakopmund Constituency. The holotype, designated as Hale 81089, was found on the eastern side of the Salt Road, just south of Wlotzkasbaken, approximately northwest of Swakopmund at an elevation of. This specimen is housed at the United States National Herbarium. The species was initially classified in the genus Neofuscelia, a genus that has since been wrapped into Xanthoparmelia.
Description
Xanthoparmelia arrecta has a foliose thallus that is tightly attached to the surface it grows on, usually not exceeding in diameter. The thallus are narrow, measuring 0.5–1.2 mm wide, and have a convex shape. The upper surface of the lobes is brown with a slightly yellowish tone towards the ends, becoming slightly wrinkled as it ages. Unlike many lichens, Xanthoparmelia arrecta does not have soredia or isidia, which are reproductive propagules. The lower surface is tan to pale brown, smooth, and features sparse, short rhizines. Chemical spot tests on the thallus show K−, and HNO3+ ; on the medulla they are PD−, K−, C−, KC+. Xanthoparmelia arrecta contains the secondary metabolite hypoprotocetraric acid.
Habitat and distribution
This species is endemic to Namibia, where it was found in the Swakopmund Constituency, growing in semi-arid environments such as gravel flats and coastal regions.