Sarcogyne

Sarcogyne is a genus of crustose lichens belonging to the family Acarosporaceae. These lichens are typically found growing on calcareous rocks (rocks containing calcium carbonate, such as limestone) in arid and semi-arid environments.

Sarcogyne species are characterized by their areolate thallus (body), which is divided into small, discrete segments resembling cracked pavement. The apothecia (fruiting bodies where spores are produced) are immersed within the areoles or slightly raised. The color of the thallus can vary depending on the species and environmental conditions, ranging from whitish to grey to brown.

Identification of Sarcogyne species often requires microscopic examination of the spores and other anatomical features. They play a role in weathering and soil formation on rocky substrates, contributing to the gradual breakdown of the rock surface.