Description: Somewhat resembles Sphaerophorus globosus (described elsewhere) but the main branches are quite different: conspicuously flattened — sometimes like paddles with spiky branchlets, while the discs (if present), arise from the lower surfaces of these near the ends but not growing from them. The thallus may also be part-stained magenta-purple. It occurs in sheltered acid woodlands and on mossy rocks and boulders. It is scattered in the west of Ireland but largely absent from the east.

Key Identification Features:

• Main branches flattened; discs sub-terminal; in Sphaerophorus globosus the branches are rounded and discs terminal on the branches
• Branches often spiky with little flappy branchlets.

Original text submitted by Vince J. Giavarini

Distribution Map from NBN: Bunodophoron melanocarpum at National Biodiversity Network mapping facility, data for UK.

iNaturalist: Bunodophoron melanocarpum at iNaturalist World Species Observations database.