The Usnea Dill. ex Adans is the second largest genus within the family Parmeliaceae, with enormous diversity in Indonesia comprising approximately 30 species. Despite this substantial diversity, relatively few taxonomic studies have progressed on Usnea in Indonesia. This study aimed to document the diversity of Usnea species in West Java and to report newly recorded taxa from the region. During the field expedition conducted from September 2023 to March 2024 in West Java, Indonesia, the identification of 18 species of Usnea was successful, representing three subgenera: Usnea Dill. ex Adans, Eumitria Stirt, and Dolichousnea (Y. Ohmura) Articus. Among these species, five species were newly documented specimens in West Java. Species identification depended on morphological, anatomical, and microchemical analyses, including spot tests and microcrystal observations. These findings significantly enhanced the taxonomic understanding of Usnea in the region and suggested the unexplored diversity in montane forest ecosystems. The newly recorded species also exhibited ecological specificity to high-altitude habitats, underlining their conservation importance.
Beard lichen, ecosystem, genetic diversity, Kayu Angin, morphology, species, taxonomy, Usnea Dill. ex Adans
In the identified 18 Usnea species, five species were the newly recorded specimens in West Java, which considerably contributed to the taxonomic and ecological status of lichens in Indonesia. The results offer valuable prospects for breeders and plant scientists in utilizing lichen-derived bioresources for plant health and environmental management.