Flora of New Zealand Series

L. demissum (Rutström) G. Schneider et Hertel, Herzogia 5: 460 (1981).

Lichen demissus Rutström, Sp. Pl. crypt. Suec.: 8 (1794).

Thallus ± areolate, areolae 1-2(-4) mm diam., in part contiguous, in part scattered, often ± polygonal, dull grey-brown, closely attached to substrate, terricolous. Lower surface very pale. Apothecia dark red-brown at first, plane and marginate, becoming convex and immarginate. Ascospores 12-16 × 5-7 µm.

N: Gisborne. Mt Hikurangi (J.K. Bartlett). S: Otago (West Matukituki Valley, Mt Maungatua, Flagstaff Hill and Swampy Hill, Dunedin). Rather rare, on subalpine soils or amongst mosses in alpine or subalpine habitats.

Bipolar