Description of Arthonia fissurina Nyl.
Arthonia fissurina Nyl. is a species of crustose lichen commonly found in North America and Europe. It is also known by its common names such as Fissured Arthonia lichen, cracked lichen, and Arthonia fissurina.
Appearance
Arthonia fissurina Nyl. appears as a thin, grey-green crust with a smooth to slightly textured surface. The thallus is usually small, with a diameter of less than 2mm. The fruiting bodies are small, black, and circular, measuring 0.2-0.3mm in diameter. They are usually distributed evenly on the surface of the thallus.
Uses
Arthonia fissurina Nyl. does not have any significant economic or medicinal use. However, it serves as an indicator of air quality and habitat quality. The species is sensitive to air pollution; hence its presence indicates good air quality. In contrast, a decline in its population is an indication of harmful air quality.
The presence of Arthonia fissurina Nyl. also indicates the presence of high-quality habitats with little to no disturbance. It is found mainly in undisturbed habitats such as old-growth forests and nature reserves.
Growth Conditions for Arthonia fissurina Nyl.
Arthonia fissurina Nyl. is a species of lichen that is commonly found in North America and Europe. It typically grows on rocks or tree bark, preferring well-lit areas with a humid environment.
Light Requirements
The lichen requires moderate to bright light for optimal growth. They typically grow in areas with partial to full sunlight exposure. However, direct sunlight exposure should be avoided as it can lead to dehydration.
Temperature Requirements
The lichen can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. The optimal temperature range for growth is between 15°C to 25°C. However, the lichen can survive in temperatures as low as -30°C and as high as 35°C.
Soil Requirements
Arthonia fissurina Nyl. grows well on both acidic and basic soils. The lichen can grow on a variety of substrates, but it prefers to grow on rocks or tree bark. It does not require any specific nutrients or fertilizers for growth.
Water Requirements
The lichen requires a humid environment and can tolerate occasional rainfall. However, it cannot survive in areas with water stagnation as it can lead to the growth of other microorganisms.
In conclusion, Arthonia fissurina Nyl. grows best in well-lit areas with a humid environment and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It does not require any specific nutrients for growth and grows well on rocks or tree bark.
Cultivation
Arthonia fissurina Nyl., commonly known as rock disc lichen, grows mostly in rocky habitats, such as cliff faces and boulder fields. It is also commonly found in alpine regions. To cultivate this plant, it is necessary to replicate its natural environment. The best way to achieve this is to grow it on rocks or stones, either inside or outside the house, but always exposed to a moderate amount of sunlight.
Watering Needs
Arthonia fissurina Nyl. can survive long periods of time without water due to its drought-tolerant nature. However, it grows faster and healthier if you water it regularly to maintain the optimal moisture level. When you notice the surface of the rock or stone is dry, sprinkle it with water until it becomes moist, but avoid overwatering as this can damage the plant.
Fertilization
There is no need to fertilize Arthonia fissurina Nyl. since it obtains all the necessary nutrients from the atmosphere and the surface on which it grows. In fact, applying fertilizer to the plant can harm or damage it. Therefore, it is recommended not to use any fertilizer on this plant.
Pruning
There is no need to prune Arthonia fissurina Nyl. as it will naturally grow into its natural form. However, removing any dead or diseased parts of the plant can help prevent the spread of diseases and pests. In addition, regular cleaning of dust and debris accumulation can help maintain optimal health and appearance of the plant. Use a soft-bristled brush or gently blow on the surface to remove the dirt and debris accumulated over the surface.
Propagation of Arthonia fissurina Nyl.
Arthonia fissurina Nyl. is a lichen, which means that it primarily propagates by spores that are dispersed through the air. However, it can also propagate vegetatively through fragmentation.
Spore propagation
Arthonia fissurina Nyl. produces numerous spores that are small, lightweight, and easily dispersed through the air. These spores can travel long distances and will eventually land on a suitable substrate where they can germinate and grow. To propagate the plant through spores, you can collect mature lichens and shake them over a clean surface. You can also place a piece of substrate with mature lichen in a dry, sterile container and wait for the spores to disperse and settle on the substrate.
Vegetative propagation
Arthonia fissurina Nyl. can also be propagated vegetatively through fragmentation. This occurs when a piece of lichen breaks off from the main thallus and grows into a new plant. To propagate the plant in this way, you can carefully separate a small piece of the lichen from the main thallus and attach it to a new substrate. The new substrate should be clean and have similar conditions to the original substrate where the lichen was growing.
Disease and Pest Management for Arthonia fissurina Nyl.
Arthonia fissurina Nyl. is a lichenized fungus that can be affected by various diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Lichen spot disease - This disease is caused by a fungus that grows on the surface of the lichen, creating black or grayish spots. It can be managed by removing infected parts of the plant and ensuring proper growing conditions such as adequate sunlight and ventilation.
2. Lichen powdery mildew - This is a fungal disease that leads to white patches on the surface of the lichen. It can be managed by applying fungicides and ensuring proper care such as proper watering and fertilization.
3. Lichen rust - This disease causes rusty spots on the lichen. It can be managed by removing the infected parts of the plant and ensuring proper growing conditions such as adequate sunlight and ventilation.
Pests
1. Scale insects - These insects often appear on the surface of the lichen as small, brown bumps. They suck the sap from the plant, which can cause damage. They can be managed by applying insecticides or wiping them off with a soft cloth dipped in soapy water.
2. Spider mites - These pests can be identified by the fine webs they create on the surface of the lichen. They feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and wilting. They can be managed by applying insecticidal soap, increasing humidity or using predatory mites.
3. Mealybugs - These insects appear as tiny white cottony masses on the surface of the lichen. They suck the sap from the plant, which can cause yellowing and wilting. They can be managed by applying insecticides or wiping them off with a soft cloth dipped in soapy water.
By following proper care and management techniques, such as proper watering and fertilization, regular cleaning, and inspections, the presence of diseases and pests on the Arthonia fissurina Nyl. can be minimized.
