A crustose species that consists of yellow to green-yellow granules that are scattered across a distinctive black prothallus. Apothecia are almost always present and have a yellow disc and a margin that may become crenulate.
In Scotland, Candelariella aurella f. aurella is widespread except for some upland areas in the north and west. It is found on nutrient-enriched calcareous rocks, concrete, mortar and cement. BLS distribution map
Candelariella aurella f. aurella is distinguished from Candelariella vitellina f. vitellina on basis of the thinly scattered granules on a distinctive black prothallus as opposed to these granules forming a thick crust.
scottishlichens.co.uk 