Verrucariaceae Hydropunctaria maura (Verrucaria maura) Growth type crustose Chemical reactions negative Forms the 'black zone' on coastal rocks and shingle, extending from below HWM to some distance above. Develops best on exposed shores Areolate dark-brown to black thallus with rough, warted surface, often appearing like spilt oil. Conical perithecia, prominent to +/- immersed.

Hydropunctaria maura (Verrucaria maura)
Studland Bay, Dorset. February 2013