Teloschistes chrysophthalmus
Golden-eye lichen forms small, shrubby tufts that stand out against the bark, catching the light with yellow-green to orange tones. The branching structure gives it a delicate, airy appearance, while the bright orange disks punctuate the colony like tiny glowing embers. In open woodland settings, these clusters appear almost luminous, especially when illuminated by direct sunlight.
For identification details and comparison with other similar species, see
the Teloschistes chrysophthalmus in the Field Notes section.
Golden-eye on Twig with Mixed Lichens
A dense cluster of orange apothecia surrounded by Physcia rosettes and Candleflame on weathered bark.
Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mk IV
Lens: EF100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM
Settings: ISO 100 * Aperture f/13 * Shutter 1.0 s
E22A0184_85_88 • Size: 5448x3632
Golden-eye Sunburst on Birch Twig
A dense cluster of vivid orange apothecia rises from a slender birch twig, catching warm light against a backdrop of quiet decay.
Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mk IV
Lens: EF100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM
Settings: ISO 100 * Aperture f/13 * Shutter 0.5 s
E22A0106 • Size: 3198x2132
A compact burst of orange clings to the curve of a birch twig, its surface crowded with tiny cup-shaped apothecia that glow in low, golden light. The lichen forms a tight, tufted colony, its irregular lobes lifting just enough to create a textured, almost miniature landscape. Pale bracket fungi line the branch below, adding contrast in both color and form, while the smooth gray bark and soft background keep the focus on the vivid, sunlit cluster.