ACAROSPORA SOCIALIS

Lichens are a set of organisms which form a mutually beneficial living bond, and approximately 150 species can be observed throughout Joshua Tree National Park. Acarospora Socialis forms flat clumps in shades of bright yellow and green on the slabs of the Skull Rock region.

Algae represent plant-like, generally aquatic organisms and Cyanobacteria are microrganisms, each capable of photosynthesis and both classified as Photobiont. A fungus is the singular term describing forms of life which aid in the decomposition of organic matter. The symbiotic relationship of Lichens is comprised of an intimate interaction between a fungus and a photobiont.

Each participant in the symbosis fulfils specific roles. The fungus partially envelops its counterpart, protecting it from the elements, while the photobiont provides sustinance for through photosynthesis. Acarospora Socialis is known as Crustose, which indicates it assumes a flat growth pattern. It prefers igneous rocks such as the Monzogranite Slopes of the Little San Bernardino Mountains.