Overview of Arthonia Fusca
Arthonia fusca, a member of the Arthoniales order and Arthoniaceae family, is a lichenized fungus that is commonly found in the Arctic and subarctic regions around the world. The species was first described by Annibale Massalongo and later renamed by Franz Hepp in 1857.
Common Names for Arthonia Fusca
Arthonia fusca is commonly referred to as "brown felt lichen" due to its brownish color and cushion-like appearance. Other common names include "dark brown felt lichen" and "Arctic felt lichen".
Appearance of Arthonia Fusca
The body of Arthonia fusca is a thin crust forming cushion-like structures that can be up to several centimeters in diameter. The upper surface of the cushion has a velvety texture with small, discrete areoles having a diameter of 0.1-0.5 mm. The color of the upper surface ranges from brown to dark brown, with black dots occasionally scattered on the surface. The underside of the cushion is black and largely hairless, but may have a few rhizoids.
Uses of Arthonia Fusca
Arthonia fusca has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes. In particular, Inuit medicine has used this species as a remedy for sore throats, arthritis, fever, and as a tea to help with respiratory issues. However, it is important to note that there is limited scientific evidence to support these claims, and thus caution should be exercised when using the species for medicinal purposes.
Light:
Arthonia fusca is a lichenized fungus that prefers to grow in areas with low to moderate light intensity. Excessive sun exposure can lead to desiccation and photo-oxidative damage, hindering its growth. Therefore, it is commonly found growing on the lower trunks of trees or rock formations where it can receive some light but not direct sunlight.
Temperature:
The optimal temperature range for Arthonia fusca growth is between 5°C to 25°C. However, this lichenized fungus can survive in temperature extremes ranging from -30°C to 60°C. It can tolerate cold conditions, but it prefers a more moderate temperature range.
Soil Requirements:
Since Arthonia fusca is a lichenized fungus, it does not require soil to grow. It gets its nutrients from photosynthesis since it has a symbiotic relationship with algae. However, it is known to grow on rocks, bark, and soil, and even in harsh environments such as Arctic tundra. Over time, it can settle and colonize an area, forming dense, crusty growths.
Cultivation Methods for Arthonia Fusca
Arthonia Fusca is a lichen species that grows in a symbiotic association between a fungus and an alga. It has no roots or leaves and can grow on rocks, soil, or the bark of trees. Here are some cultivation methods to grow Arthonia Fusca:
- Choose a rock or tree trunk in a shaded area to grow Arthonia Fusca.
- Scrape off any moss or other lichen present on the selected surface before placing Arthonia Fusca on it.
- Gently place Arthonia Fusca on the surface and press it down slightly to ensure firm attachment.
- Ensure the surface is kept clean, and place it in a shaded area.
- Do not use any chemical products on the surface since it can damage the lichen.
Watering Needs for Arthonia Fusca
Arthonia Fusca does not require watering since it can absorb water from the atmosphere through its entire body. However, if the cultivation surface dries out, you can mist it to create a humid environment for Arthonia Fusca to absorb moisture. Do not spray the water directly onto the lichen thallus since it can damage the fragile structure.
Fertilization for Arthonia Fusca
Arthonia Fusca does not require any fertilization since it can produce its food through photosynthesis. It is a self-sufficient species that can thrive in nutrient-poor environments. Avoid using any fertilizer on the surface where it is growing since it can affect its delicate balance.
Pruning for Arthonia Fusca
There is no need to prune Arthonia Fusca since it does not have any stem, leaves or branches. It is a flat, crusty lichen that grows symmetrically. If any part of the lichen becomes discolored or dries out, you can remove it gently to avoid damaging the attached parts. Avoid using any sharp tools to prune Arthonia Fusca.
Propagation of Arthonia Fusca
Arthonia fusca is a lichen species that grows on bark, wood, and rock surfaces. The plant reproduces through sexual and asexual means, resulting in the formation of propagules that disperse to new locations.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation of Arthonia fusca occurs through the fragmentation of the thallus, which is the vegetative body of the lichen. The thallus breaks apart into small fragments, each of which can develop into a new plant. This method of propagation is common in lichen species and allows the plant to rapidly colonize new substrates.
Sexual Propagation
Sexual propagation in Arthonia fusca occurs through the production of spores. The spores are formed within fungus structures called apothecia, which develop on the surface of the thallus. When the spores are released, they disperse through the air and settle on new substrates.
The spores germinate and form a new thallus, which eventually develops into a mature plant. Sexual propagation is less common than asexual propagation in Arthonia fusca, as it requires specific environmental conditions for the apothecia to develop and release spores.
Overall, Arthonia fusca is an adaptable and widespread lichen species that utilizes both asexual and sexual propagation methods to establish and maintain populations in a variety of environments.
Disease Management for Arthonia Fusca
Arthonia Fusca is susceptible to various diseases that can affect its growth and development. Here are some common diseases that affect this plant and ways to manage them:
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that affects the foliage, stems, and branches of the plant. It causes the leaves to become brown or yellow, and the branches to wilt. To manage this disease, you can apply a fungicide spray to the plant. Keep the foliage dry by watering the plant at the base in the morning hours, avoid wetting the leaves. Remove the infected parts of the plant on a regular basis.
- Leaf spot: This is a fungal infection that causes circular or irregular spots on the leaves. Remove infected plant debris on the plant and from the surrounding area to avoid the spread of the fungus. Apply a copper-based fungicide at the start of the growing season. Ensure proper spacing, air circulation, and good drainage practices are followed in addition to proper watering.
Pest Management for Arthonia Fusca
Here are some common pests that can affect Arthonia Fusca and ways to manage them:
- Spider mites: These are tiny insects that suck the sap out of the plant leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. If early signs of infestation are observed, rinse the plant with a high-pressure water stream to dislodge the mites. Apply an insecticide or pesticide that is safe for the foliage at least once a week for three weeks followed by continued surveillance for a few more weeks
- Scales: These insects usually suck the sap from the stem, and the foliage turns yellow and falls off. Wipe down affected areas with a gentle solution that contains water and dish soap. Treat with an insecticide or pesticide such as Neem oil or horticultural oil to ensure complete eradication.
