Overview: Arthothelium abnorme (Ach.) Mull. Arg.
Arthothelium abnorme (Ach.) Mull. Arg. is a type of lichen, also known as crustose Lichen. It belongs to the family Arthoniaceae, found across different regions, including North America, Europe, and Asia.
Appearance
This fruticose (bushy) lichen has olive-green, brown, or grayish crusty-veil that covers the tree's bark, rocks, or soil. The plant has a membranous thallus, grow up to a height of 1 mm to 2 cm, and its branches are sparsely branched.
Uses
Arthothelium abnorme isn't used for medicinal purposes or food. Instead, it's used for environmental purposes, such as measuring pollution levels. Lichens like Arthothelium abnorme are highly sensitive to environmental pollution, and their presence, or lack of, can indicate pollution levels.
Other names:
- Arthothelium abnorme (Ach.) Mull. Arg.
- Pyrenula abnormis (Ach.) Ach.
- Arthonia abnormis Ach.
Light Requirements
Arthothelium abnorme thrives in areas with moderate light levels. It prefers to grow in spots with a range of light, from partially shaded to mostly sunny areas.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species prefers moderate temperatures and can thrive in areas with a range of temperature from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. It is important to note that growth slows down in colder temperatures, and high temperatures can lead to drying out of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Arthothelium abnorme grows best in soil that is well-draining and has good aeration. The ideal soil pH range is slightly acidic, between 5.5 and 6.5. This species can also grow in rocky habitats or on bark.
Cultivation Methods for Arthothelium abnorme
The Arthothelium abnorme plant is primarily found growing on tree trunks, twigs, and branches. To cultivate this plant, it is best to recreate a similar environment by planting it on a suitable substrate such as a tree trunk or branch covered in moss. Growing it indoors in a pot is also possible, but it will require more specialized care.
Watering Needs for Arthothelium abnorme
The watering needs of Arthothelium abnorme can be challenging to manage. Overwatering can cause root rot, while underwatering can cause the plant to dry out and die. It is essential to keep the substrate moist at all times but not wet. Regular monitoring is necessary, and watering should be done when the substrate's top layer feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization for Arthothelium abnorme
Arthothelium abnorme plants do not require frequent fertilization. However, adding a bit of liquid fertilizer to the substrate once every two months can help boost growth. Use a fertilizer with a low to medium concentration, diluted to half or quarter of the recommended dose indicated on the packaging. Over-fertilization can harm the plant, so be cautious not to overdo it.
Pruning for Arthothelium abnorme
Arthothelium abnorme plants do not need regular pruning. However, removing any dead or damaged leaves or branches can help the plant focus its energy on new growth and stay healthy. The best time to prune is in the spring when the plant is actively growing. Use sterilized pruning shears to avoid spreading diseases.
Propagation of Arthothelium abnorme (Ach.) Mull. Arg.
Arthothelium abnorme (Ach.) Mull. Arg. is a nonvascular, small-sized (less than 2 mm) leafy liverwort. The plant is propagated via asexual methods, primarily by fragmentation and gemmae. Due to its lack of vascular tissue, Arthothelium abnorme does not have seeds or spores.
Fragmentation
Fragmentation is one of the primary asexual methods used to propagate Arthothelium abnorme. In this method, pieces of the vegetative body of the plant break off and grow into new individuals. Fragments of the thallus can be transferred to moist soil or other suitable substrates. The thallus fragments develop new shoots and roots, eventually turning into a mature plant.
Gemmae
Gemmae are small, multicellular propagules produced from specialized structures on the thallus called gemma cups. These propagules are roughly spherical, ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 mm in size, and are dispersed by rainwater splash or other mechanical means. When they land in suitable habitats, they produce new gametophytic plants. Gemmae production is an essential part of asexual reproduction and a convenient method for propagating the plant in natural as well as lab settings.
Disease and Pest Management for Arthothelium abnorme
Arthothelium abnorme is a type of lichen that grows on rocks and trees. However, like other plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect this plant:
Diseases
One of the common diseases that affect Arthothelium abnorme is lichen necrosis. This disease causes the plant's tissues to die, resulting in black spots on the thallus. Lichen necrosis can be caused by environmental stressors such as high temperatures or pollution. To manage this disease, it is important to reduce stressors such as air pollution and UV radiation by shading the plant or lowering pollution levels in the environment.
Another disease that might affect Arthothelium abnorme is lichen spot disease. This disease can result in white or black spots on the thallus. Lichen spot disease can be controlled by pruning the affected areas of the plant and treating it with a fungicide.
Pests
Arthothelium abnorme can be affected by various pests, including mites and scale insects. These pests can cause stunted growth and discolored thalli. To manage pest infestations, regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation. If there are signs of pests, prune the affected areas and use an insecticidal soap to treat the plant.
Another common pest that might affect Arthothelium abnorme is snails. Snails can feed on the plant's thallus, leading to slow growth and damage to the plant. To manage snails, remove any debris or leaf litter around the plant, as these provide a habitat for the snails. You can also use copper barriers or snail bait to control snail infestations.
Overall, it is important to regularly inspect Arthothelium abnorme for signs of disease or pest infestations. Early detection and control measures can help minimize the damage to the plant and prevent further spread.
