Lichinaceae Synalissa ramulosa (Synalissa symphorea) Growth type fruticose. BLS conservation evaluation: VU Chemical results negative A rare Mediterranean species, usually coastal in small soil-filled crevices on damp limestone rocks. Small spongy thallus composed of short blackish branches, swollen at their ends and sometimes covered with a bluish bloom. When present apothecia develop at the end of the branches, disc pore-like or expanded and reddish-brown. Asci 8-24 spored, spores simple, 7-10(-12) x 6-9 µm. Sometimes lichenicolous on other lichens in the same habitat and particularly associated with Romjularia lurida, in photographs below

Synalissa ramulosa
On limestone, Portland, Dorset. February 2016