Stereocaulon vesuvianum var. nodulosum

A lichen commonly found in Iceland on the slopes of volcanoes.

The sucs are ancient volcanoes and despite the average altitude, we are on the peaks of the Massif Central with a climate worthy of the Alps.

This lichen is a pioneer organism that appears on volcanic rocks well before any plant life and by transforming into humus, it leaves room for heather and other high-altitude plants.

Depending on the extreme conditions of its habitat, in addition to the algae/fungus combination, a cyanobacterium (Stigonema) is added which contributes to the self-sufficiency of the lichen.