R9 Species Conservation Assessment for Caloplaca parvula Wetm. in The Upper Great Lakes National Forests

Abstract

Caloplaca parvula Wetm. is designated as a Regional Forester Sensitive Species on the Superior National Forest in the Eastern Region of the Forest Service. The purpose of this document is to provide the background information necessary to prepare Conservation Approaches and a Conservation Strategy that will include management actions to conserve the species.

This conservation assessment provides available information on Caloplaca parvula Wetm. and its distribution, habitat, range, status, life history, and ecology. Caloplaca parvula grows on the bases of smooth barked trees in wet areas and is endemic to eastern North America with one collection as far east as Quebec. It is not known from Europe. In the Great Lakes area common habitat for this species is wet black ash bogs at the ends of lakes. It is an R9 Sensitive Species on Superior National Forest in Minnesota. Threats to Caloplaca parvula are drastic changes in water levels of the ash bogs and well as road construction or logging near the bogs.