Candelariaceae

Candelariaceae is a small family of lichen-forming fungi in the order Teloschistales. It contains a single genus, Candelaria, and approximately 13 species. These lichens are typically found in temperate regions worldwide, often growing on bark, rocks, and soil. A distinctive feature of Candelariaceae is their bright yellow to orange thallus, which is crustose or somewhat foliose. The surface of the thallus can appear granular or powdery. Under a microscope, the fungal hyphae are often pigmented and have a characteristic gelatinous texture.

The reproductive structures, apothecia, are usually lecanorine, meaning they have a thalline margin. The asci contain eight spores, which are simple, oblong, and hyaline. The photobiont partner for Candelariaceae is typically a green alga from the genus Trentepohlia. These lichens are generally slow-growing and can be sensitive to air pollution, making them useful bioindicators. They play a role in primary succession by colonizing bare surfaces and contributing to soil formation.