Appalachian Dust Bunnies

This species is distinguished by its unique woolly appearance, where all soredia (reproductive propagules) are aggregated into distinctive clusters called consoredia, reaching up to 1 mm in size. These consoredia are surrounded by a characteristic loose network of branching and interconnecting fungal threads (hyphae), which, while forming an extensive mesh, typically do not project outward. The hyphae may be colourless or develop brown pigmentation in their outer portions. The thallus (lichen body) has a diffuse margin without lobes and lacks a medulla (inner layer). The color of the thallus ranges from whitish to more or less brownish to bluish-gray. Spot tests are K+ (yellow), C−, KC−, P−, and UV−.

The species occurs primarily on rock surfaces, with occasional records from soil or mosses. It can be found in both dry and somewhat wet overhanging areas and rock walls. Lepraria lanata is known only from montane regions of eastern United States, at elevations ranging from 1,120 to 1,990 m (3,670 to 6,530 ft).

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