Chemistry and morphology of Chrysothrix candelaris in Poland, with notes on the taxonomy of C. xanthina

The chemical and morphological variation of the lichen Chrysothrix candelaris s.l. as well as habitat requirements and distribution were studied in Poland. The species was found to be chemically variable, but as the chemotypes do not differ in granule size, habitat preferences, or distribution, they are treated as representing one chemically variable taxon. The size of the granules in Polish specimens is contrary to the previous reports for C. candalaris, but the measurements are very similar to those for C. xanthina, which differs only in distribution and habitat and is treated as a probable semi-cryptic species.