Alectoria Positiva: Plant Origin and Common Names
Alectoria positiva (Gyelnik) Mot. is a species of the lichen family, Alectoriaceae. It is commonly known as the 'positive alectoria' or the 'reindeer lichen'. This lichen is distributed throughout the boreal forests of North America, Europe, and Asia. It is commonly found growing as an epiphyte on the branches of coniferous trees such as spruce and pine.
Alectoria Positiva: Appearance
The positive alectoria is a fruticose lichen that is highly branched and has a tufted appearance. It has a pale grey-green color that fades to white when dried. The plant is typically 2–8 cm in height with a width of about 1 cm. The vegetative thallus consists of a basal stipe that branches into numerous narrow, flattened, strap-like structures called lobes or branches. These lobes are densely covered in small, convex, pimple-like structures called isidia that are used for reproduction.
Alectoria Positiva: Uses
The positive alectoria is a valuable food source for caribou, elk, and other deer species. Indigenous people of North America have historically used this lichen as a food source, often boiling it to remove its bitter taste. Reindeer lichen extract is also commonly used in modern food products as a natural stabilizer and emulsifier. Alectoria positiva has also been used medicinally, with studies showing its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, it has been used for years by Indigenous North Americans for wound healing and treating respiratory issues.
The positive alectoria is sensitive to air pollution and has been used as an indicator species for air pollution monitoring. It is also highly susceptible to overgrazing by large herbivores and the destruction of its habitat through logging.
Light Requirements
Alectoria positiva is a lichen species that prefers growing in areas that receive low to moderate light. It mostly grows in open areas such as grasslands, rocky slopes, and mountain ridges where the light exposure is not direct. Direct sunlight exposure can cause it to dry out and die.
Temperature Requirements
This lichen species is commonly found in sub-alpine to alpine regions. It has a low-temperature threshold and can tolerate harsh winter conditions with temperature dips as low as -40° Celsius. During the summer, Alectoria positiva can withstand temperatures as high as 20° Celsius.
Soil Requirements
Unlike most plants that require soil to grow, Alectoria positiva is a lichen species that uses trees or rocks as a substrate. It does not require soil and can grow in a variety of different substrates, including decaying wood, bark, and soil. It is commonly found in coniferous forests where it grows on branches, trunks, and twigs of trees.
Cultivation Methods for Alectoria positiva (Gyelnik) Mot.
Alectoria positiva is a slow-growing lichen that can be challenging to cultivate. As it is a symbiotic organism that relies upon both fungi and algae to flourish, replicating its natural environment is essential for success.
This lichen prefers cool, damp environments and can often be found growing in forests or on rocks. To cultivate Alectoria positiva, recreate these conditions by growing it in a terrarium or a shaded, moist area outdoors.
Use a substrate that mimics the tree bark on which Alectoria positiva typically grows. A mix of peat moss, sphagnum moss, and vermiculite is ideal. Place the lichen on top of this substrate and spray it with distilled water to keep it moist.
Watering Needs for Alectoria positiva (Gyelnik) Mot.
Alectoria positiva requires consistent moisture to thrive. Water the lichen regularly but be careful not to saturate it. Allow the substrate to dry slightly between waterings, but do not let it become bone dry.
When watering Alectoria positiva, use distilled water or rainwater. Tap water can contain minerals and other additives that could harm the lichen.
Mist the lichen with water rather than pouring water directly onto it. This will help prevent damage to any fragile growth.
Fertilization for Alectoria positiva (Gyelnik) Mot.
Alectoria positiva is not a plant that requires fertilization. As a lichen, it obtains its nutrients through photosynthesis and from its symbiotic relationship with fungi.
Adding fertilizer to the lichen's substrate can harm it and prevent its growth. Allow it to obtain its nutrients naturally, and it will thrive.
Pruning for Alectoria positiva (Gyelnik) Mot.
Alectoria positiva does not require pruning as it is a slow-growing lichen. However, it is essential to keep an eye on it and remove any dead, damaged, or diseased sections promptly.
Gently remove any debris or growth that accumulates on top of the lichen using a soft-bristled brush. Avoid using any tools that could damage the lichen.
Removing dead or diseased growth promptly will help prevent the spread of disease and promote healthy growth.
Propagation of Alectoria positiva
Alectoria positiva can be propagated through vegetative means, which include division, fragmentation, and cuttings.
Division
Division is the easiest method of propagation for Alectoria positiva, and it involves separating the plant's clumps into smaller divisions that can be replanted. The best time to divide the plant is during the early spring when new growth is visible. The division should be done carefully to avoid damaging the roots, and each division should have enough roots and foliage to sustain it.
Fragmentation
Fragmentation involves breaking off a piece of the plant and replanting it in a different location. This method is not commonly used for Alectoria positiva, as it can damage the plant and result in the loss of its characteristic shape and color. However, if fragmentation is necessary, it should be done carefully to avoid injuring the plant.
Cuttings
Cuttings are another method of vegetative propagation that can be effective for Alectoria positiva. This involves taking a stem cutting from the plant and replanting it in a suitable potting mix. The cutting should be taken from a healthy portion of the plant and should have a good number of leaves. The cutting should be kept in a warm, humid environment until new growth appears.
Disease and Pest Management for Alectoria positiva (Gyelnik) Mot.
Alectoria positiva (Gyelnik) Mot. is a lichen species that is generally resistant to diseases and pests. However, in certain conditions, it can be damaged by various diseases and pests, affecting its growth and survival.
Common Diseases
One common disease that affects Alectoria positiva is lichenicolous fungi. These fungi grow on lichens and can damage the thalli, resulting in discoloration, lesions, and deformities. To manage this disease, it is essential to identify the type of fungus and use appropriate fungicides. Another disease that affects Alectoria positiva is lichen necrosis, a fungal disease that causes the thalli to rot and disintegrate. To manage this disease, it is necessary to remove the infected parts of the plant and improve air circulation and drainage to prevent the growth of fungi.
Common Pests
One common pest that affects Alectoria positiva is spider mites. These tiny arachnids can damage the thalli by sucking the sap from the plant, resulting in yellowing, stunted growth, and distortion. To manage this pest, it is necessary to use miticides, remove the affected parts of the plant, and improve the growing conditions to prevent infestations. Another pest that affects Alectoria positiva is scale insects. These insects can attach to the thalli and feed on its sap, causing discoloration, stunted growth, and deformation. To manage this pest, it is important to prune and remove heavily infested areas, use insecticides, and improve air circulation to prevent future infestations.
