Overview
Arthothelium interveniens (Nyl.) Zahlbr. is a type of lichen that is commonly found on tree bark and rocks. Lichens are complex organisms that consist of a symbiotic relationship between fungi and algae or cyanobacteria. Arthothelium interveniens is a member of the Arthoniaceae family and is also known by its common name, Rock Shield Lichen.
General Appearance
The thallus, or body, of Arthothelium interveniens can range from green to yellow-green and has a shield-like or crustose appearance. The edges of the thallus are often raised and the surface is smooth with tiny black spots or black lines present. The lichen produces small apothecia, or fruiting bodies, which are black and disc-shaped, growing up to 1mm in diameter.
Geographic Range
Arthothelium interveniens is a widespread lichen species that can be found in North America, Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa. It is commonly found growing on the bark of trees, especially conifers, and on rocks in both urban and natural environments.
Uses
Lichens have been used for a variety of purposes, including traditional medicine and dyes. However, Arthothelium interveniens does not have any significant medicinal or commercial uses. It does play an important role in the ecosystem, providing habitat and shelter for small organisms and contributing to nutrient cycling in the environment.
Growth Conditions for Arthothelium Interveniens
Arthothelium interveniens is a lichenized fungus that is found in humid and shaded environments. It typically grows as a foliose lichen on bark or rock surfaces, particularly in areas with high humidity such as cloud forests and in areas with a lot of rainfall.
Light Requirements
Arthothelium interveniens typically grows in shaded areas, where it is protected from direct sunlight. This is because excessive light can cause damage to the photosynthetic apparatus of the lichen thallus. Therefore, growing this plant in direct sunlight can be harmful.
Temperature Requirements
Arthothelium interveniens thrives in cool and humid environments, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Higher temperatures can cause the lichen to dry out, which can affect its growth and development.
Soil Requirements
Arthothelium interveniens does not require soil for growth as it is a lichenized fungus. It grows on surfaces such as rocks, tree bark, and other substrates where it can attach itself using its holdfasts.
However, the substrate must provide a favorable environment for the growth of its photobiont partner, which is typically a green alga. The substrate must be able to retain moisture and provide some nutrients for the photobiont to carry out photosynthesis.
Cultivation of Arthothelium interveniens
Arthothelium interveniens requires a well-draining and nutrient-rich soil mix. The ideal potting mix consists of equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and compost. Plant the Arthothelium interveniens in a pot with sufficient drainage holes to avoid waterlogging.
Watering Needs of Arthothelium interveniens
Arthothelium interveniens requires moderate watering. The soil should be moist to the touch, but not waterlogged. Water only when the top layer of soil is dry to prevent fungal growth, which can damage the plant's roots. During winter, reducing the frequency of watering is recommended, as the plant's growth slows down.
Fertilization of Arthothelium interveniens
Fertilize Arthothelium interveniens every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer. A high amount of nitrogen and a low amount of phosphorus can be beneficial for the plant's growth. Fertilization should be done during the growing season, i.e., spring and summer, and decreased or stopped during winter.
Pruning of Arthothelium interveniens
Pruning is not required for Arthothelium interveniens, as it naturally has a compact and bushy growth habit. However, removing dead or damaged leaves and stems is necessary to promote healthy growth. Overgrown stems can be cut by half to encourage new growth.
Propagation of Arthothelium Interveniens (Nyl.) Zahlbr.
Arthothelium interveniens (Nyl.) Zahlbr. can be propagated through different methods. The following are some of the methods that can help propagate the plant:
Seed Propagation
Propagation by seeds involves collecting mature seeds from the parent plant and sowing them in a nutrient-rich soil mixture. Seeds of Arthothelium interveniens (Nyl.) Zahlbr. are very tiny and require a light touch. Ensure that the surface is moist and well-draining, and the seeds are covered lightly with soil, ensuring they are exposed to light. Once the germination process starts, maintain the soil moisture level until the seedling is established.
Vegitative Propagation
Another method used to propagate Arthothelium interveniens (Nyl.) Zahlbr. is through vegetative propagation. It involves the use of vegetative parts of the plant-like leaves, stems, and roots to grow a new plant. The technique involves identifying a healthy parent plant, choosing a healthy stem, making a cut below the node, and planting it in a rooting hormone. The stem should be covered with a transparent cover to preserve moisture and encourage root development.
Division
The division method in propagating Arthothelium interveniens (Nyl.) Zahlbr. involves dividing an existing, mature plant by separating it into two or more individual plants. The technique is done by digging up the parent plant and separating the root ball into two or several equal parts using a sharp, clean knife or garden shears. Ensure each separated section has enough roots, shoots, and leaves, and plant them in separate containers or garden beds with a nutrient-rich soil mixture.
Cutting propagation
Propagation through cutting is done by choosing a healthy part of a parent plant and making cuttings of it. Ensure the cutting is at least an inch long, with a least 2 nodes. The cutting should be put in rooting hormone before inserting it into growing media with good drainage. Ensure the plant's water supply is regulated and well-draining soil is used. The cutting should grow roots and start to form leaves within a few weeks.
Disease Management
Arthothelium interveniens (Nyl.) Zahlbr. is generally a hardy plant that is not prone to many diseases. However, inadequate care and poor growing conditions can lead to the development of some common diseases, including:
- Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes circular or irregular brown or black spots on leaves. It can be managed by removing infected leaves, avoiding overhead watering, and ensuring good air circulation around the plant.
- Powdery mildew: This is another fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on leaves. It can be managed through proper watering, fertilization, and pruning to promote good air circulation.
- Rust: This fungal disease causes yellow, orange, or brown rust-like spots on leaves. It can be managed by removing infected leaves and ensuring good air circulation.
To prevent the occurrence of these diseases, it is important to provide the plant with adequate water, proper fertilization, and good growing conditions. In addition, keeping the plant clean and free of debris can also help to prevent the spread of disease.
Pest Management
Arthothelium interveniens (Nyl.) Zahlbr. is relatively pest resistant, but it can still be affected by a few common pests. These include:
- Spider mites: These are tiny insects that suck the sap from leaves, causing leaves to turn yellow or brown and curl. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a hard stream of water to dislodge them or using insecticidal soap.
- Mealybugs: These insects secrete a white waxy coating on the leaves and stems and can cause the plant to become weakened and stunted. They can be managed by wiping the leaves with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or using insecticidal soap.
- Scale insects: These insects appear as small bumps on the leaves and stems and can cause leaves to turn yellow and fall off. They can be managed by wiping the plant with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or using insecticidal soap.
To prevent the occurrence and spread of these pests, it is important to inspect the plant regularly and keep it clean and free of debris. In addition, using natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can also help to control pest populations.
