Description: This lichenicolous lichen inhabits the thallus of Lecanora polytropa but is also suspected on other species. The pure black discs grow both on the thallus and also the discs of the host. In a squash of C. supersparsa the contents show up bright blue-green. Spores are 8–13 x 5–7µm, slightly peaked at the ends. Look for it on hard acid rock in former mine sites.

Key Identification Features:

• Growing on the thallus and discs of Lecanora polytropa; discs coal-black, internally, with blue-green pigments
• Highly acidic nutrient-impoverished rocks, for example, mine spoil.

Original text submitted by Vince J. Giavarini

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

iNaturalist: Carbonea supersparsa at iNaturalist World Species Observations database.