Endocarpon riparium is a species of corticolous (bark-dwelling) squamulose lichen in the family Verrucariaceae.[1] This lichen was discovered growing near rivers in the Brazilian Amazon, where it forms patches on wood, tree bark, and rocks that are sometimes underwater. It reproduces by producing small detachable pieces along its edges rather than through typical spore-bearing structures, making it unusual among related species.
The thallus consists of dense, adglutinated flat squamules that do not overlap and together form rather indeterminate patches. It is corticate (with a cortex), smooth, somewhat shiny, and olive green (turning bright green when wet), without a distinct prothallus . Some margins appear reddish, probably from iron incrustation derived from the substrate or river water. Squamules are about 50–80μm thick with a 15–25μm cortex (dilute pale pinkish brown above, hyaline below). The photobiont consists of small chlorococcoid cells (about 5–8μm in diameter). The lower surface bears branched, hyaline rhizohyphae about 3μm thick. Margins and cracks are lined with numerous minute (0.1–0.2mm) dorsiventral lobules of thallus tissue that detach easily and act as vegetative propagules. Ascomata and pycnidia were not observed. Endocarpon riparium is unreactive with standard spot tests; thin-layer chromatography detected no lichen substances.[2]
Habitat and distribution
Endocarpon riparium grows on wood, tree bark, and siliceous rock close to rivers; some collections came from bark that is occasionally submerged. Collections have been made in both disturbed forest and primary tall forest.[2] It is known only from Amapá state in Brazil,[3] where it appears locally common along rivers.[2]
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