Teloshistes chrysophthalmus

Teloschistes chrysophthalmus. This species went through eras of being extinct through most of the 20th century. It was thought to be extremely sensitive to air polution. It was at the end of 2012 that it suddenly started to be found, especially on hawthorn and blackthorn from Dorset through to Kent including the Isle of Wight. It is not known whether the reason was a one off period of weather which suited the germination of spores, or whether the increase is continuing. Teloschistes grows on pecan trees in central Dallas, Texas, so it is doubtful whether air pollution is a major factor. It should be searched for on bushes especaily above, and in full view of the sea. However, this is where it is most often seen, and it has been found inland in Herefordshire where it was on apple twigs. This photograph was taken at Jerbourg in Guernsey in the Channel islands. On no account should it be collected, especially as it is so distinctive.

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