Which species depend on riparian areas?

Short answer

Three groups of lichens depend on riparian areas:

Non-epiphytic, in-stream species

Examples:

• Dermatocarpon meiophyllizum
• Leptogium rivale
• Peltigera hydrothyria

Epiphytic species thriving in streamside and lakeshore forests and woodlands.

Examples:

• Leptogium polycarpum
• Ramalina thrausta
• Sticta fuliginosa
• Usnea wirthii
• Many cyanolichen species

Epiphytic species in forested wetlands, especially ash swamps (Fraxinus latifolia)

See McCune (1998), Ruchty (2000).

Examples:

• Fuscopannaria mediterranea
• Hypotrachyna riparia
• many cyanolichens

In the Oregon Coast Range, Ruchty (2000) found that the lichens in riparian areas shift along a gradient from the headwaters to the lower reaches. Headwater streams tend to be at higher elevations, have narrower floodplains or closely constraining slopes, and be more dominated by hardwoods. Older stands in the headwaters tend to have more old-growth associated species, especially Alectoria sarmentosa, than do older stands along lower reaches.

See long answer

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