Flora of New Zealand Series

≡Leproplaca lutea J.R.Laundon in D.J. Galloway, N. Z. J. Bot. 21: 193 (1983).

Holotype: New Zealand. Taranaki, Mt Taranaki [Egmont], on volcanic rock, 910 m, 28.iv.1969, A.S.D. King, – CHR 343143.

Description : Flora (1985: 248 – as Leproplaca lutea).

Chemistry : Thallus K+ violet-red, C− or faint orange; containing parietin.

N: Taranaki (Mt Taranaki), Wellington (Mt Ruapehu). S: Otago (Dunstan Mts, Pisa Ra., Poolburn Reservoir, Old Man Ra., Lammerlaw Ra., Rock & Pillar Ra., Umbrella Ra.). On volcanic and schist rock, commonly in Central Otago in dry underhangs, sometimes forming extensive swards, 600–2000 m.

Endemic

Caloplaca lutea is characterised by: the saxicolous habit (volcanic and schist rocks); the diffuse, leprose, deep-yellow thallus comprising a mass of pulverulent, minutely spherical granules. It differs from Chrysothrix candelaris (q.v.) in its granular appearance and in chemistry.