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Roccellaceae
Family of lichen-forming fungi / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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The Roccellaceae are a family of fungi in the order Arthoniales, circumscribed by French botanist François Fulgis Chevallier in 1826. This family is distinguished by a wide variety of growth forms, including crustose and fruticose thalli, and a diverse range of reproductive structures. Roccellaceae species typically have apotheciate or lirellate ascomata, often with distinct carbonised (blackened) margins. The family has been extensively studied through molecular phylogenetics, revealing significant genetic diversity and complex evolutionary histories.
Roccellaceae | |
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Roccella gracilis growing on twigs, Santa Fe Island, Galápagos Archipelago | |
Scientific classification ![]() | |
Domain: | Eukaryota |
Kingdom: | Fungi |
Division: | Ascomycota |
Class: | Arthoniomycetes |
Order: | Arthoniales |
Family: | Roccellaceae Chevall. (1826) |
Type genus | |
Roccella DC. (1805) | |
Genera | |
48, see text | |
Synonyms[1] | |
The evolution of Roccellaceae has been marked by multiple independent developments of similar traits, particularly in growth forms. Molecular studies have revealed that the family is divided into two main phylogenetic groups, each with distinct characteristics related to their internal structures. These findings have led to significant revisions in the family's taxonomy, providing greater clarity on their evolutionary relationships. Roccellaceae produce various lichen products from various chemical classes, some of which have been historically important as sources of purple or red dyes such as orchil.
Roccellaceae species are widely distributed, with a nearly cosmopolitan presence, though they predominantly inhabit tropical and subtropical regions. Species typically grow on rocks or on tree bark, although some grow on leaves. They form symbiotic relationships with green algae from the genus Trentepohlia, which contribute to their ecological success in diverse habitats, particularly coastal and near-coastal environments. Five species have been assessed for the IUCN Red List, highlighting the need for further research and habitat protection.