Calcium Oxalate and Medullary Architecture in Xanthomaculina Convoluta

Abstract

The anatomy of Xanthomaculna convolute shows adaptation to a vagrant life form and to the moisture conditions of its habitat. The differential swelling of the irregularly thickened upper cortex and the medulla, in addition to the rigid medullary structure, due to the deposition of calcium oxalate, allow orderly hygroscopic thalline movements. The architecture of the medulla appears to be closely related to masonry-like arches where the material is only stressed by compression and the stresses are distributed at the hinges. The possible role of crystalline medullary deposition as a radiation reflector is also suggested.