Umbilicaria cylindrica

Umbilicaria cylindrica, commonly known as the fringed rock tripe, is a leafy lichen found in cold, high-altitude and polar regions across the globe. It forms roughly circular thalli measuring between 2–10 centimetres and is easily recognised with a dark upper surface bordered by a fringe of fine, hair-like projections. As one of the first colonisers of bare rock, it paves the way for more complex communities in areas exposed to intense ultraviolet light. The species is particularly abundant in Arctic–alpine environments, where it can form extensive patches on exposed boulders and rock outcrops. First described scientifically by Carl Linnaeus in 1753, the species has undergone several reclassifications as researchers have explored its varied appearances and chemical traits. While many names have been historically assigned to its various forms, current studies show that these differences are simply variations within one highly variable species. Essential for identification are its maze-l......read more on Wikipedia.