Overview
Arthonia cinnabarina (DC.) Wallr. is a species of lichenized fungi under the family Arthoniaceae. This species has been reported in different parts of the world, including Central America, Europe, North America and South America.
Common Names
This species is commonly known as Cinnabar Arthonia or Arthonia coccinea.
Appearance
Arthonia cinnabarina has a bright red thallus, which is crustose and irregularly cracked. The thallus often measures between 0.2-1 mm in diameters and lacks any organized surface structures. The apothecia are disc-shaped and measure around 0.5 mm in diameter. The fungi's spores are translucent, thin-walled and measure 6-10 x 2-3 µm in size.
Uses
Arthonia cinnabarina has been used in the past to produce red dye. The dyeing qualities of this lichen were particularly important for indigenous peoples, especially in the Galapagos Islands. Currently, there are no known modern or traditional uses of Arthonia cinnabarina for medicinal or other purposes, although it continues to be an important food source for some species of insects and gastropods.
Growth conditions for Arthonia cinnabarina (DC.) Wallr.
Light: Arthonia cinnabarina is a shade-tolerant species and can survive in low light conditions, making it a suitable plant for shaded areas. However, it also grows well in partial sun, and ensures the plant receives enough light to produce carbohydrates through photosynthesis.
Temperature: Arthonia cinnabarina grows well in temperate climates. The optimal temperature range for Arthonia cinnabarina growth is between 18 to 25 °C. If the temperature goes beyond this range, the plant’s development will be hampered, and growth will be affected.
Soil: The plant species typically flourish on soils with good drainage abilities, organic matter, and good nutrient contents. Arthonia cinnabarina grows well in soils with pH values ranging from slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.1-7.5), as well as soils that contain sand and lots of loam. The plant will also grow better on soils that have moderate moisture content.
To get the best growth conditions for Arthonia cinnabarina, it is important to maintain proper light, temperature, and soil conditions, as this will enable it to grow, mature, and blossom successfully. Consistency in Care, attention to detail, and consistent monitoring will ensure a healthy, vibrant, and beautiful plant.
Cultivation Methods:
Arthonia cinnabarina (DC.) Wallr. is a crustose lichen commonly found on tree bark, rocks, and soil. It does not require any specific soil types or growing conditions and can thrive in a range of habitats.
The most common method of cultivation is the transplantation of the lichen to a suitable host substrate such as tree bark or rocks. The best time to transplant Arthonia cinnabarina is in the spring or fall when the lichen is actively growing.
Watering Needs:
Arthonia cinnabarina (DC.) Wallr. is a lichen and does not require regular watering like other plants. It obtains all its nutrients from the air and substrate it is growing on.
However, during hot, dry weather, it is beneficial to spray the lichen with water to prevent it from becoming too dry and brittle.
Fertilization:
Arthonia cinnabarina (DC.) Wallr. does not require fertilization as it obtains all its nutrients from the air and substrate it is growing on.
Fertilizing the lichen could potentially harm it or create an environment for the growth of unwanted species.
Pruning:
Arthonia cinnabarina (DC.) Wallr. does not require pruning as it is a lichen and does not have traditional leaves or branches. Any dead or damaged portions of the lichen will eventually fall off on their own.
If the lichen becomes too thick or begins to encroach on other plants or structures, it is acceptable to gently scrape off excess growth with a soft brush or wooden tool.
Propagation of Arthonia cinnabarina
Arthonia cinnabarina (DC.) Wallr. is a lichen species commonly found in rocky areas, and it grows on different substrates like bark, wood, and stone. It is a slow-growing plant that reproduces through different forms of propagation.
Vegetative Propagation
Arthonia cinnabarina can reproduce vegetatively through fragmentation. Pieces of the thallus can break off and start growing into a new individual. This type of propagation is slow and unpredictable, and it is not commonly used in cultivation.
Sexual Propagation
The sexual reproduction of Arthonia cinnabarina occurs through the production of spores that develop inside the asci. The spores are released into the air, and they can land on a suitable substrate and germinate into a new individual.
In cultivation, sexual propagation can be achieved by collecting spores from mature thalli and sowing them on a substrate. The substrate can be made of a mixture of soil, sand, and organic matter, and it should be kept moist and in a shaded area. It may take several weeks to months for the spores to germinate and form thalli.
Once the thalli have established themselves on the substrate, they can be transplanted into a suitable growing medium or onto a new substrate. It is important to provide the thalli with suitable environmental conditions, like high humidity, moderate light, and good air circulation, to ensure their growth and development.
Overall, propagation of Arthonia cinnabarina is slow and requires patience and careful attention to the plant's needs. With the right conditions, both vegetative and sexual propagation can be successful.
Disease Management
Arthonia cinnabarina is a lichen that is relatively disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to foliar diseases caused by fungal pathogens under harsh environmental conditions, such as high humidity or improper watering. The most common diseases that can affect the plant include:
- Lichenomphalia umbellifera: This disease causes raised, circular, yellow-orange lesions on the surface of the lichen. The best way to manage this disease is by removing the affected parts and maintaining optimal growing conditions.
- Mycosphaerella arthoniae: This disease appears as small, dark specks on the surface of the lichen. The best way to manage this disease is by maintaining adequate air circulation and watering minimally.
- Phoma arthoniae: This disease presents as small, dark lesions on the surface of the lichen. The best way to manage it is by removing the infected parts and disposing of them properly.
Pest Management
Arthonia cinnabarina is also relatively pest-resistant. However, it may sometimes be damaged by insects and other pests. The most common pests that may affect the plant include:
- Spider mites: These pests appear as tiny, reddish-brown insects on the surface of the lichen. To manage spider mites, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellow spotting and leaf drop. The best way to manage them is by removing the visible insects and using a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
- Thrips: These pests appear as tiny, slender insects on the surface of the lichen. The best way to manage them is by using sticky traps or soap sprays.
