Verrucaria nigrescens

Fungi Verrucaria nigrescens, commonly known as a type of crustose lichen, is a remarkable species often found in the Comunidad Valenciana. This lichen is well-adapted to survive in a variety of habitats, showcasing a unique composition that enables it to thrive on rocky substrates.
Verrucaria nigrescens is characterized by its black, crusty appearance, which often makes it blend seamlessly into its surroundings. Its structure is a tight, darkly pigmented crust that adheres firmly to the surfaces it colonizes, typically gritty rocks or concrete. This lichen is predominantly found in temperate regions and is commonly observed in low to mid-altitude areas within the Comunidad Valenciana.
The defining features of Verrucaria nigrescens include:
- Coloration: It usually exhibits a deep black or dark brown hue.
- Texture: Its surface is rough and crust-like, forming a thin layer over rocks.
- Reproductive Structures: The lichen produces small, perithecia-shaped fruiting bodies that are often difficult to see with the naked eye.
- Habitat: Prefers calcareous rocks and can also be found on acidic substrates in urban environments.
This species is an important ecological component, as it contributes to soil formation by breaking down rocks and facilitating the colonization of other organisms in inhospitable environments.