Old-new lichen

Island Beach SP False Reindeer Lichen

This closeup photo shows how Cladonia subtenuis varies (taken July 24, 2009). I assume that the larger, broken off hollow stems are older portions. The smaller dichotomous (multiply-bifurcating) sections might be newer growth. Or would these differing structures be described as the inner and outer sections of the plant? I hope to return and talk to one of the two resident naturalists someday. I could not find details at the interpretive center. View image. Back to the New Jersey Island Beach SP travel page.