Overview of Arthonia Mediella Nyl.
Arthonia Mediella Nyl. is a lichen species in the Arthoniaceae family that is primarily found on the bark of trees. This plant is commonly known as the "Candelaria lichen" and is a known pioneer colonizer of disturbed habitats.
Origin
Arthonia Mediella Nyl. is native to Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. It can be found in a wide range of habitats, from forests to urban environments.
General Appearance
The Candelaria lichen has a flattened crustose thallus that can measure up to 10cm in diameter. Its upper surface is smooth, glossy or slightly powdery, and reddish-brown to black in color. Meanwhile, its underside is dark brown to black, with numerous small black dots (pseudothecia) scattered across it. The plant's growth can be both granular and diffuse, with distinct lobes that are adnate to slightly raised from the substrate.
Uses
Arthonia Mediella Nyl. does not have much economic or medicinal value. However, it is considered an essential species for soil fertility and ecosystem functioning. It is also an indicator of environmental quality, and its presence is used to assess the ecological integrity of ecosystems. Aside from that, Candelaria lichen is frequently seen in the hobbyist communities and is collected as an ornamental plant for use in traditional moss gardens.
Light requirements
The plant Arthonia mediella Nyl. prefers shaded or partially shaded environments. Direct sunlight can cause damage to its growth and development.
Temperature requirements
This plant has an optimal growth temperature range of 10-25°C (50-77°F). It can tolerate higher temperatures but will not thrive in extreme heat or cold.
Soil requirements
Arthonia mediella Nyl. grows best in well-draining soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Rich, organic soils that retain moisture can help support its growth and development. It can also grow on rocks and bark.
Other growth conditions
Air humidity levels should be moderate to high for optimal growth. Excessive moisture can also be harmful to the plant, so proper drainage is necessary to prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged. The plant can tolerate short periods of drought, but regular watering is necessary to promote healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods
Arthonia mediella Nyl. is typically a slow-growing plant that doesn't require much maintenance. This genus is known for its resilience in harsh environments, so it's best to cultivate it outdoors where it can receive adequate sunlight and moist environments.
The plant grows well on rocks, logs, and trees, making it an ideal addition for rock gardens and landscaping. In terms of planting, the substrate of choice should be well-draining with a neutral to acidic pH level. You can use soil mixed with sand or perlite to improve drainage.
Watering Needs
Arthonia mediella Nyl. requires constant moisture, especially when it's newly planted. Ensure you avoid overwatering which leads to root rot and fungal infections. Proper watering is essential to prevent drying of leaves, discoloration, and stunted growth.
Keep the soil moisturized but not waterlogged by watering the plant once a week in dry weather, or during long dry spells. If the soil gets too dry, try to increase the watering frequency. On the other hand, reduce watering during humid weather or the rainy season.
Fertilization
Arthonia mediella Nyl. requires a mild fertilizer application if you're looking to boost its growth and promote foliage development. Choose a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen as the main nutrient. Follow the instructions on the package to ensure you don't overload the plant with too much fertilizer.
In terms of timing, fertilize the plant once every month during the growing season (spring and summer). This will provide the plant with the necessary nutrients to support its growth. If the plant is grown indoors, it may require more frequent fertilization.
Pruning
Pruning Arthonia mediella Nyl. is optional, but it can help shape the plant and remove any dead or yellowing leaves. If you notice any diseased parts, prune these as soon as you discover them to avoid spreading disease to other parts of the plant.
When pruning, use clean, sharp pruning shears to avoid crushing or damaging the stem. Cut the stem about 1/4 inch from the node at a slight angle for upright growth. Prune back to 1 inch above the ground if you notice the plant is getting too leggy or overgrown.
Propagation of Arthonia mediella Nyl.
The propagation of Arthonia mediella Nyl. can be done through vegetative or asexual means as the plant does not develop seeds.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Arthonia mediella Nyl. involves using plant parts such as stems, roots or leaves to develop new plants. However, this method is not suitable for Arthonia mediella Nyl. as the plant does not have distinct stems or roots that can be used for propagation.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation of Arthonia mediella Nyl. involves the use of specialized structures called soredia and isidia found on the plant's surface. These structures develop on the thallus and can be easily detached to form new plants.
Soredia are small, powdery, propagative structures that consist of a cluster of algal cells surrounded by fungal filaments. They can be found on the surface of the thallus of Arthonia mediella Nyl. and are easily dislodged to form new plants.
Isidia, on the other hand, are small, rounded, vegetative structures that protrude from the thallus and consist of both fungal mycelium and algal cells. They are also easily detached and can be used for propagation.
Both soredia and isidia can be dispersed by wind, water or animals and can form new plants when they land on suitable substrates.
Propagation of Arthonia mediella Nyl. through asexual means is therefore the most viable method to propagate the plant. It is a simple and efficient method that ensures that the new plants are genetically identical to the parent plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Arthonia mediella Nyl.
Arthonia mediella Nyl. is a type of lichen that is generally hardy and resistant to many diseases and pests. However, there are some common issues that can arise which can threaten the health and longevity of the plant.
Common Diseases
One common disease that can affect Arthonia mediella Nyl. is known as canker. This is a fungal infection that causes the bark of the plant to decay and can eventually lead to the death of the plant. To prevent canker from affecting the plant, it is important to keep the area around the plant clean and free of debris. Additionally, pruning infected branches and burning them can prevent the disease from spreading.
Another disease that can affect the plant is Anthracnose, a fungal leaf disease that causes leaf spots, stem cankers, and fruit rot. To manage Anthracnose, it is essential to reduce the stress of the plant by providing adequate nutrition and water. If the plant is already infected with the disease, removing the infected branches and reducing the humidity around the plant can help control the disease spread.
Common Pests
Arthonia mediella Nyl. is not commonly attacked by pests. However, scale insects may damage its growth by infesting leaves and stem and sucking the sap from the plant. To manage scale insects, natural predators such as ladybird beetles, predatory mites, and lacewings should be introduced to the area around the plant. Additionally, horticultural oils can be sprayed on the plant to suffocate them and reduce the population of scale insects.
Spider mites may also pose a threat to Arthonia mediella Nyl., causing webbing on leaves and premature leaf drop. Regularly watering the plant and maintaining a high humidity around the plant can help prevent spiders from infesting the plant. If the plant is already infected, introducing natural predators such as ladybird beetles, predatory mites, and spider wasps can help control the pest population.
By implementing proper disease and pest management practices, Arthonia mediella Nyl. can remain healthy and thrive in its environment. Conducting regular inspections and obtaining the right treatments when necessary can help protect the plant's longevity and vitality.
