A recently described species that differs from C. efflorescens by its smaller, inconspicuous areoles, the absence of well-delimited soralia, coarser soredia (30–70 µm vs. 20–55 µm), slightly larger apothecia (0.2–0.5 mm) with a persistent proper margin, and broader paraphysis tips (up to 4.5 µm vs. 3 µm). The asci are polysporous.
So far, the species has been recorded mainly on the bark of deciduous trees (e.g. Acer platanoides, Fraxinus, Populus) and also on wood of solitary and roadside trees in the temperate and boreal zone. It has only rarely been found in old-growth scree forests. The lichen often occurs together with members of the genera Physcia, Phaeophyscia and Physconia, suggesting an affinity for nutrient-rich substrata. In Europe, C. pulchella is widespread and it probably also occurs in North America. In the Czech Republic, only a few records are currently known (Šumava, Jeseníky, Bohemian–Moravian Highlands), but it is probably not rare.
Literature: van der Kolk H., Westberg M. & Malíček J. (2025): Morphological and molecular data support the distinction of four sorediate corticolous Candelariella species in Europe. – The Lichenologist 57: 144–165.
taxonomic classification:Ascomycota → Lichinomycetes → Candelariales → Candelariaceae → Candelariella
All records: 3, confirmed 3. One click on a selected square displays particular record(s), including their source(s).