The identity of Buellia ericina (Nyl.) Jatta and its generic position

The study of the type material of Bucellia ericina (Nyl.) Jatta has reveale d that this species is characterized by the same diagnostic characters as R inodina madeirensis Kalb & Hafellner, and both taxa are here considered to be conspecific. The generic position of Buellia ericina is discussed and it is concluded that the species is better placed within the genus Rinodina ( Ach.) Gray. New chemical data on this taxon are provided, and its sorediate variety, R. ericina var. boomii, is described as new from Portugal. Its cl osest affinities are shown to be with Rinodina kalbii Giralr & Matzer and p robably also R. insularis (Arnold) Hafellner. This group stands apart in th e family Physicaceae. It shows affinities with Diploicia A. Massal. and is included provisionally in Rinodina. (C) 2000 The British Lichen Society.