Introduction: Buellia atrata (Sm.) Anzi
Buellia atrata, also known as Melanelia atrata, is a lichenized fungus species that belongs to the family Physciaceae. The plant was first described by James Edward Smith, an English botanist, and later renamed by Giuseppe Anzi, an Italian lichenologist, in 1860. Buellia atrata is widely distributed and can be found in many different regions, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa.
General Appearance
Buellia atrata is characterized by its thallus, which is a flat or slightly convex, olive-brown to black-colored crust that is attached to the substrate by rhizines. The plant's thallus can grow up to 4 cm in diameter and is often covered with a white pruinose layer. Its apothecia, the fruiting body of the fungus, are usually sessile, black, and up to 1.5 mm in diameter.
Common Names
Buellia atrata is commonly known as the black shield lichen, shadow shield lichen, grey shield lichen, or black Buellia lichen. These common names refer to the plant’s typical dark-colored appearance and its thallus, which can act as a protective shield.
Uses
Buellia atrata is not known to have any significant economic or medicinal value. However, the plant does play an essential ecological role in habitats where it occurs. It can serve as a significant source of food and shelter for many small organisms such as mites, springtails, and snails. Additionally, it can help in stabilizing soil and preventing erosion.
In conclusion, Buellia atrata is a lichenized fungus species with an olive-brown to black-colored crust that is attached to the substrate by rhizines. It is commonly known as the black shield lichen and can be found in many different regions around the world. Although the plant does not have any significant economic or medicinal value, it still plays an essential ecological role in the habitats where it occurs.
Light Requirements
Buellia atrata (Sm.) Anzi thrives best in a moderate amount of sunlight. It needs enough light to carry out photosynthesis, but not too much light that may cause leaf scorching or dehydration. Therefore, growing the plant under partial shade or dappled shade is ideal.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers a temperate climate. It grows well within the temperature range of 10 to 20 degrees Celsius (50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit). It can, however, withstand a few degrees lower or higher than this range, although growth might be affected in extreme temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The soil should be well-draining, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic with a pH range of 6.0-6.5. Buellia atrata (Sm.) Anzi grows well in sandy loam soils that are fertile and light textured. The plant requires good air circulation in the soil, which ensures better plant growth and limits the occurrence of soil-borne diseases.
Cultivation methods for Buellia atrata
Buellia atrata is a slow-growing lichen that is commonly found growing on rocks, trees, and soil. It grows best in areas with moderate temperatures and low to moderate rainfall. The lichen can be propagated by taking small fragments and attaching them to rocks, soil, or trees.
Watering needs for Buellia atrata
As a lichen, Buellia atrata does not require a lot of water to survive. It obtains its nutrients and moisture from the air and substrate on which it grows. However, if the lichen is being grown on rocks or trees in a dry area, occasional watering can be done to help the lichen survive.
Fertilization for Buellia atrata
Buellia atrata does not require fertilization to grow. As a self-sustaining lichen, it obtains its nutrients from the air and the substrate on which it grows. There is no need to add any fertilizers to the growing environment.
Pruning Buellia atrata
Buellia atrata does not require pruning since it is a slow-growing lichen that takes its time to develop. However, if it becomes too large and overgrows a particular area, you can gently remove it by hand or with a soft brush.
Propagation of Buellia atrata (Sm.) Anzi
Buellia atrata (Sm.) Anzi can be propagated both sexually and asexually. Sexual propagation involves propagating the plant through seeds, while asexual propagation involves propagating the plant without the use of seeds.
Sexual Propagation
To propagate Buellia atrata (Sm.) Anzi sexually, collect mature seeds from the plant and dry them in a cool, dark place. Once dried, sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mixture and cover them lightly with soil. Keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering. Germination will occur in 2 - 3 weeks under ideal conditions.
Asexual Propagation
The asexual propagation of Buellia atrata (Sm.) Anzi can be done through fragmentation or vegetative propagation. Fragmentation involves dividing the plant into smaller sections and replanting them. Vegetative propagation involves taking cuttings from the plant and rooting them.
To propagate Buellia atrata (Sm.) Anzi through fragmentation, divide the plant into smaller sections while ensuring that each section has enough roots and leaves to survive. Replant the sections in a well-draining soil mixture and water them sufficiently. To propagate the plant through vegetative propagation, take cuttings from the plant and remove any leaves from the lower part of the cutting. Then, dip the cutting into a rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mixture. Water the cutting sufficiently, and it will root and develop into a new plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Buellia atrata (Sm.) Anzi
Buellia atrata (Sm.) Anzi is a species of lichen that is typically found growing on rocks and substrates that are rich in minerals and nutrients. While the plant is generally resistant to many types of pests and diseases, there are several common issues that may affect its growth and health over time.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases to affect Buellia atrata is Phoma ochrochlora, which causes blackening and die-back of the lichen thallus. Additionally, Buellia atrata may also be susceptible to bacterial infections, particularly those caused by species of Pseudomonas and Bacillus.
To manage these diseases, it is important to maintain proper hygiene and sanitation practices when handling Buellia atrata and to keep the surrounding environment clean and free of debris. Additionally, regular inspections for signs of disease can help to catch and treat any issues before they become more severe.
Common Pests
Although Buellia atrata is generally resilient to pests, some of the most common ones to affect the plant include spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. These pests can cause damage to the lichen thallus, leading to discoloration, texture changes, and eventual die-back of the affected areas.
To manage these pests, it is important to monitor the plant regularly for signs of infestation, such as white or yellow stippling on the surface of the thallus. If an infestation is detected, it may be possible to remove the pests manually using a soft brush or spraying the plant with a gentle stream of water.
Conclusion
Effective disease and pest management for Buellia atrata requires a combination of preventative measures and prompt treatment of any issues that may arise. By maintaining proper hygiene and sanitation practices and regularly inspecting the plant for signs of disease and infestation, it is possible to keep Buellia atrata healthy and thriving for many years to come.
