Aspicilia submersa (Lamy) Hue
Aspicilia submersa is a species of lichen that belongs to the family Megasporaceae. It is commonly known as the underwater freckle lichen and can be found on rocks that are submerged in freshwater throughout the Eastern United States and Canada.
Common Names
The common names of Aspicilia submersa are underwater freckle lichen, freshwater freckle lichen, and Lamy's aspicilia. These names refer to the lichen's characteristic appearance and preferred habitat.
Uses
Aspicilia submersa is not known to have any medicinal or commercial uses, but it does play an important role in freshwater ecosystems. As an aquatic lichen, it helps to stabilize the substrate, provide cover and food for aquatic invertebrates, and provide oxygen to the surrounding water.
General Appearance
Aspicilia submersa has a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from other lichens. It forms small, flat, oval-shaped thalli that are usually less than a centimeter in diameter. The thalli have a pale greenish-gray or yellowish-grey color and are covered in numerous small, dark freckles called prothallus. The apothecia, or reproductive structures of the lichen, are also small and round with a black or brown coloration. This unique appearance makes the underwater freckle lichen easy to identify in its freshwater habitat.
Light Requirements
Aspicilia submersa (Lamy) Hue is a species of lichens that grows best in areas with moderate levels of sunlight. It can grow in both shaded and exposed locations, but direct sunlight can cause desiccation and reduce growth. It is known to perform better in partially shaded areas under trees, rocks, and other shaded areas.
Temperature Requirements
Aspicilia submersa (Lamy) Hue can thrive in a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers cooler temperatures and is commonly found in northern regions. The species can grow in temperatures ranging from 5°C to 25°C, but it has been observed to grow slowly at temperatures above 30°C or below 0°C.
Soil Requirements
Aspicilia submersa (Lamy) Hue can grow on various substrates, including rock, moss, tree bark, and soil. However, the species thrives best on porous and well-aerated soils. It prefers a neutral to slightly acidic pH of 6 to 7.5. The soil structure should be well-drained because Aspicilia submersa (Lamy) Hue cannot tolerate waterlogged soils. The soil should also be rich in nutrients and organic matter to support healthy growth and development of the species.
Cultivation Methods
Aspicilia submersa is a lichen species that grows naturally in aquatic environments such as muddy soil, rocks submerged in water, underwater boulders, and riverbanks. Cultivating the plant in a garden environment requires mimicking these natural growing conditions. Hence, the plant will grow well in a wetland or boggy substrate, which imitates its natural habitat. If cultivating in a pot, combine a mixture of peat, sand, and perlite to provide adequate wetness and drainage for the plant.
Watering Needs
Aspicilia submersa requires adequate moisture to thrive. The soil or growing substrate must be continuously wet and should never dry out. Using slow and steady watering procedures should be avoided, as the plant requires regular watering at a steady pace to prevent the roots from being exposed to air. Irrigating too much water may reduce oxygen absorption and cause the roots to rot away. Also, ensure that the water source is calm and that the plant substrate is never submerged in water for an extended period.
Fertilization
Aspicilia submersa is not sensitive to excess nutrients and requires minimal fertilization during the growing season. You can add a slow-release aquatic plant fertilizer tab to the growing substrate once a growing season, such as in early spring, to promote growth and vigor. Avoid using fast-acting fertilizers, which may release too much nutrients causing the soil to be overly rich and creating toxic buildup in the root zone.
Pruning
Pruning is not a necessary process for Aspicilia submersa as the plant is low maintenance and does not require shaping. You can shear off dead leaves and stems close to the substrate to maintain an attractive appearance and prevent the rotting of slow-moving water in the substrate. The removal of dead plant substances promotes the growth of healthy-looking shoots and strengthens plant resistance to disease and infections.
Propagation of Aspicilia submersa (Lamy) Hue
The propagation of Aspicilia submersa (Lamy) Hue can be done through various methods depending upon the availability of the resources.
Propagation through Seeds
Aspicilia submersa (Lamy) Hue produces minute seeds that can be collected during the summer season. These seeds can be sowed directly into the soil or in a seed bed. The soil should be well-drained and kept moist until the seeds germinate.
Propagation through Vegetative Parts
Aspicilia submersa (Lamy) Hue can also be propagated through the use of vegetative parts. The plant can be divided into smaller sections, and each section can be planted separately in a well-drained soil mix. Care should be taken to avoid damaging the roots during division, and the newly planted plants should be kept moist until they establish themselves.
Propagation through Cuttings
Aspicilia submersa (Lamy) Hue can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take cuttings of 4-6 inches long from healthy plants, and remove the bottom leaves. Insert the cuttings horizontally into the soil mix, leaving only the top of the cutting exposed above the soil. Keep the soil moist and in a bright, warm place until the cuttings establish new roots and shoot new growth.
Regardless of the propagation method chosen, care should be taken to avoid exposing the newly propagated plants to direct sunlight or heavy rain. Young plants should be kept in a shaded area and watered regularly until they establish themselves.
Disease and Pest Management for Aspicilia submersa (Lamy) Hue
Aspicilia submersa (Lamy) Hue, also known as Submerged Rim Lichen, is a type of lichen characterized by its thallus, which is often submerged under water. While this plant is generally hardy and disease resistant, it can still be affected by a number of pests and diseases. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Aspicilia submersa and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Aspicilia submersa can be affected by a number of diseases, including:
Black Fungus
Black fungus is a common disease that affects Aspicilia submersa. It is characterized by the presence of black spots or patches on the lichen's surface. To manage this disease, you should remove any infected parts of the lichen and avoid over-watering the plant.
Moss and Algae
Moss and algae can also grow on Aspicilia submersa and compete with it for nutrients and space. You can manage this problem by manually removing the moss and algae and ensuring that the plant has proper growing conditions.
Pests
Aspicilia submersa can also be affected by a number of pests, including:
Slugs and Snails
Slugs and snails are common pests that eat away at the lichen's thallus, causing damage and reducing the plant's overall health. To manage this problem, you can handpick the pests and introduce natural predators like birds or frogs.
Aphids
Aphids are another common pest that can affect Aspicilia submersa. They feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. You can manage this problem by introducing natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings, or by using insecticidal soap.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are a type of mite that feeds on the lichen's leaves, causing damage and reducing the plant's overall health. You can manage this problem by introducing natural predators like ladybugs or using an insecticidal soap.
By implementing these pest and disease management strategies, you can help Aspicilia submersa thrive and remain healthy.
