Range extension of the lichenized ascomycete, <Cladonia fruticulosa> Kremp., 1882 (Lecanoromycetes: Lecanorales: Cladoniaceae), from Similipal Biosphere Reserve of Odisha

The lichen diversity of the Similipal Biosphere Reserve in Odisha remains underexplored, particularly for fruticose lichens genus Cladonia P. Browne. The present study aims to document a specimen collected from the high-altitude region of the reserve. Morphological observations, chemical analysis, and molecular phylogenetic methods were employed for species identification. Detailed descriptions, illustrations, habitat, and ecology are provided. Previously, no specific fruticose lichen species was reported from Similipal, and the present identification evidence confirms the first record of this species from Odisha.