Plant Description
Biatora meiocarpa, also known as Meiothallia meiocarpa, is a foliose (leafy) lichen species belonging to the family Ramalinaceae. This small lichen typically grows in thin, scattered patches on the bark of trees.
Origin and Common Names
Biatora meiocarpa is widely distributed throughout Europe, Asia, and North America, where it is commonly found in old-growth forests with high air humidity. The plant has several common names including the Meiothallia Lichen and Hammer Lichen.
Uses
Though Biatora meiocarpa has no significant economic or medicinal value, it plays an essential role in providing habitat and food for various organisms, including soil arthropods, small mammals, and birds, which use it as a nesting material and foraging ground.
Appearance
The plant has a foliose thallus that is light green to gray in color and is usually less than 1cm in diameter. Its lobes are flat, broad, and often heavily cracked or perforated, with a highly textured surface area. The underside of the thallus is black-brown, and its edges have small, sharp teeth known as cilia, which are used to attach to the trees' bark tightly.
Growth Conditions of Biatora meiocarpa
Biatora meiocarpa is a lichenized fungus that commonly grows on rocks and bark of trees. It is found in various habitats such as boreal forests, temperate rainforests, and alpine tundra regions across North America and Europe.
Light Requirements
Biatora meiocarpa typically grows in areas with low to moderate light levels. Although it can tolerate some direct sunlight, it thrives best in partially shaded areas. In habitats with high light exposure, the species grows in crevices or under overhanging rocks where the light intensity is decreased.
Temperature Requirements
Biatora meiocarpa is found in a variety of habitats with different temperature regimes. However, it generally grows in areas with cool to cold temperatures. In boreal forests and tundra regions, it is found in areas where the average annual temperature is below ~10°C. In temperate rainforests, it can tolerate temperatures up to ~20°C during the growing season but prefers cooler temperatures during other times of the year.
Soil Requirements
As a lichenized fungus, Biatora meiocarpa obtains nutrients from the environment through its photosynthetic partner algae. Therefore, it does not have specific requirements for soil composition or pH. It commonly grows on various rock types, including acidic and alkaline substrates. In addition, it can also grow on bark and wood of trees.
Cultivation Methods
Biatora meiocarpa (Nyl.) Arnold is a small lichen species found on bark of trees, particularly on deciduous trees. It is best propagated by division. You can break the thallus, a part of the body of the lichen, into smaller fragments and transplant them onto other suitable substrates. For optimal growth, plant Biatora meiocarpa in an area that receives bright, indirect sunlight and has good air circulation.
Make sure that the substrate where you want to grow Biatora meiocarpa is clean, non-toxic, and provides enough moisture to the lichen. Avoid placing the lichen on substrates treated with pesticides or herbicides, as they can harm the lichen.
Watering Needs
Biatora meiocarpa is an extremely drought-tolerant species and can survive extended periods of water deprivation. However, it still requires occasional hydration for optimal growth. Water the lichen weekly or biweekly, taking care not to overwater as it can kill the lichen. The best way to hydrate the lichen is by misting it lightly with clean, distilled water. Do not use tap water, as it contains chlorine or fluorine, which can harm or even kill the lichen.
Fertilization
Biatora meiocarpa does not require fertilizers as it obtains its nutrients from air and water. Fertilizers can damage the lichen and cause it to die. Avoid using fertilizers within the lichen's immediate environment.
Pruning
Pruning is not required for Biatora meiocarpa. It does not grow leaves or stems, and it rarely grows beyond a few centimeters in diameter. Removing parts of the lichen will damage it and may negatively impact its growth and health.
Propagation of Biatora meiocarpa
Biatora meiocarpa (Nyl.) Arnold is a small lichen that grows on rocks and shaded soil surfaces in subalpine or alpine environments. Propagation of this plant is achieved through vegetative means.
Vegatative propagation
Biatora meiocarpa can be propagated through vegetative means, such as by fragmentation. When a part of the lichen thallus breaksaway or is detached from the main body, it has the capability to regrow and develop into a new individual plant.
Additionally, the lichen can be propagated by soredia. Soredia are small structures that detach from the lichen and serve as a means of vegetative reproduction. These soredia can be dispersed by wind or water and can establish new plants in suitable environments.
Culture propagation
Biatora meiocarpa can also be propagated through culture methods, such as in vitro tissue culture. This technique involves taking a small tissue sample from an existing lichen and cultivating it in a sterile environment with the necessary nutrients. Through this method, new plants can be developed and then transplanted to a suitable environment.
Propagation of Biatora meiocarpa can be useful in increasing the plant's population or for studying its ecological importance in subalpine or alpine ecosystems.
Disease Management
Biatora meiocarpa is vulnerable to various fungal diseases such as foliar blight, anthracnose, and powdery mildew. These diseases can seriously affect the plant's growth, causing leaf yellowing, wilting, and even death. To manage these diseases, it is important to maintain good plant hygiene. Remove diseased plant parts and avoid overhead watering to prevent the spread of fungal spores. Applying fungicides can also help control the spread of the diseases. Be sure to follow the label instructions and apply them as instructed.
Pest Management
Biatora meiocarpa is also susceptible to pest attacks, such as spider mites and scale insects. These pests can cause significant damage to the plant by sucking the sap and weakening it. The affected leaves may turn yellow, curl, and even drop. To manage these pests, regular inspection of the plant is crucial. Early identification can prevent the pests from spreading and causing significant damage. Remove the infested parts and isolate the plant to prevent the pests from spreading to other plants. Applying insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control the pest population. However, be sure to follow the label instructions and apply them as directed.
