Description: Very rare in Ireland, Imshaugia aleurites is typically a species of old conifer or oak bark, decaying tree stumps and untreated timber. It is easily recognised by its small, leafy, much divided, pale grey thallus covered with brittle, coral-like isidia (like small sticks). This can give the surface a somewhat gritty-granular or occasionally grubby appearance. It has been recorded from Counties Kerry, Wicklow and Antrim. In Wicklow, it occurs on oak lignum in a parkland environment. Wooden railings surrounding studs, country estates and large country properties that utilise local product for outdoor needs should be searched for this species.

Key Identification Features:

• Very flattened foliose lichen with a pale grey lobed thallus and numerous grey, coral-like isidia
• K+ yellow; PD+ yellow-orange; on untreated timber and dry or sheltered lignum.

Original text submitted by Vince J. Giavarini

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

iNaturalist: Imshaugia aleurites at iNaturalist World Species Observations database.