Trypethelium variolosum

Spore Ascus

Thin Section

Thallus

Lichen Index

Again we see the cylindrical or slightly clavate ascus shape  typical of this genus. In the upper right quadrant there is a mixture of colors. The red to brown colors are bark cells of the substrate. The green or orangish-green algal component of the lichen surrounds the bark cells and represents the algae Trentepohlia. Alone, this algae is found in shaded habitat. However, Trypetheliums occur in harsh sunny areas most commonly on dahoon holly, a medium-sized tree. This demonstrates the ability of the fungus to shelter and protect its algal partner in places it normally couldn't survive.