Abstract

The Rock Gnome Lichen (Cetradonia linearis) is one of two federally endangered lichens in the U.S. and is endemic to western North Carolina with small populations in southwestern Virginia, eastern Tennessee, and northern Georgia. It is a squamulose lichen inhabiting either partially shaded high-elevation vertical rock faces or cool, shaded lower- elevation rocks. Some of the main threats to the Rock Gnome Lichen include disturbance by climbers and hikers, air pollution from nearby industry, and climate change. The objective of this research was to survey the status of Rock Gnome Lichen populations along the Blue Ridge Parkway, repeating and expanding on a study done in 2008. Each site was assessed using the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Rapid Assessment Protocol (RAP) for Rock Gnome Lichen, which entails semi-quantitative measurements of plant cover, and the collected data was compared to findings of the previous study. This was the first inventory of Rock Gnome Lichen populations along the Parkway in 10 years, and results suggest populations are declining. These findings highlight the importance of ongoing conservation work and establish the need for continued monitoring and protection of this species under the Endangered Species Act. Because much of Rock Gnome Lichen habitat is on public lands, there is substantial potential for impact through aggressive conservation efforts within the NPS (National Park Service). This research will provide crucial information to the NPS on the necessity of continued protection for this species. It will also provide a valuable resource for other land managers in the Southern Appalachians who are stewards of Rock Gnome Lichen populations.

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