Overview
Buellia elizae (Tuck.) Tuck. is a lichenized fungus that belongs to the family Caliciaceae. It is a small and crusty plant found in various locations around the world. The common names for this plant include Eliza's rock shield lichen, buellia lichen, and rock shield lichen.
Origin and Habitat
Buellia elizae (Tuck.) Tuck. is commonly found growing on rock surfaces, rocks in streams, and soil in subalpine and alpine regions. It is commonly found in North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa.
General Appearance
Buellia elizae (Tuck.) Tuck. has a thin, smooth, and whitish-gray thallus that is about 2-6 mm in diameter. The thallus is rimmed by a distinct, black prothallus. The apothecia, or fruiting bodies, are also small and black and form small bumps (pimple-like). The spores are clear and elliptical or bullet-shaped.
Uses
Buellia elizae (Tuck.) Tuck. does not have any known medicinal or edible uses. However, it is a critical component of rock surfaces' ecology and is often used as a measure of rock weathering rates. Because it grows on rocks that are slowly weathering away, monitoring its presence and cover is a useful way to study how rocks weather over time.
Light Requirements
Buellia elizae (Tuck.) Tuck. is a lichen species that requires moderate to high levels of sunlight exposure. It thrives best in areas with partial to full sunlight exposure. In areas with insufficient sunlight exposure, the growth rate of the plant is reduced, and the plant may appear less vibrant compared to plants that receive sufficient sunlight exposure.
Temperature Requirements
Buellia elizae (Tuck.) Tuck. thrives best in areas with cool and moist climates. The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 10°C to 25°C. The absence of rainfall and hot temperatures can cause the plant to dry out and die. However, during the winter, the plant can withstand extreme cold temperatures up to -30°C.
Soil Requirements
Buellia elizae (Tuck.) Tuck. is a lichen species that does not have strict soil requirements. The plant can grow on various types of substrates, including soil, rocks, and tree barks. However, the substrate must be sufficiently moist to enable the establishment of the plant. Additionally, the presence of organic matter provides essential nutrients that are required for the growth of the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Buellia elizae (Tuck.) Tuck. is a lichen that grows on barks of trees or rocks in areas with moderate to high rainfall. To cultivate the plant, it is important to mimic the natural habitat by providing a shady and moist environment. The ideal temperature range is between 10°C to 25°C, and the pH level should be neutral to slightly acidic. One can collect a few specimens of the lichen from the wild, or buy it from specialized nurseries that supply lichens.
Watering Needs
Buellia elizae (Tuck.) Tuck. requires a constant moisture level to thrive. Thus, regular watering is essential. It is recommended to use a spray bottle to dampen the plant instead of pouring water onto it directly. This allows the water to be disbursed more evenly and prevents any damages or dislodgment of the lichen from the substrate. The amount of watering required is dependent on the level of humidity and the amount of light it receives.
Fertilization
Buellia elizae (Tuck.) Tuck. is a type of lichen that does not require fertilization. It forms a symbiotic relationship with photosynthetic algae that provide the required nutrients for its growth. However, if one must use fertilizers, it is recommended to use organic fertilizers on the substrate. Chemical fertilizers may contain compounds that harm the lichen.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Buellia elizae (Tuck.) Tuck. as it grows independently on the substrate. It does not require any additional supports or staking. However, one must be careful when handling the plant to avoid any damages or dislodgement of the lichen from the substrate. If the lichen appears to have dislodged or become broken, it is recommended to remove the damaged part to prevent any infections from spreading.
Propagation of Buellia elizae (Tuck.) Tuck.
Propagation of Buellia elizae is primarily done by sowing spores and fragmenting the existing thallus.
Sowing spores
Spores of Buellia elizae can be collected from mature apothecia using a sterilized blade and then sowed onto a suitable substrate. The substrate can be prepared using a mix of vermiculite, peat moss, and perlite or any other suitable mixture that retains moisture. The spores should be evenly distributed on the surface and then covered with a thin layer of the substrate. The container should be covered with a transparent lid and kept in a well-lit area with temperatures ranging from 20-25°C. The germination of spores can take several months, and once the young thalli are visible, they can be transferred to a suitable substrate.
Fragmentation
Fragmentation of Buellia elizae involves dividing the thallus into smaller pieces and then cultivating them on a suitable substrate. The thalli can be carefully fragmented using a sterilized blade and then placed on a suitable substrate. The substrate can be prepared using a mix of vermiculite, peat moss, and perlite or any other suitable mixture that retains moisture. The container should be covered with a transparent lid and kept in a well-lit area with temperatures ranging from 20-25°C. The thalli will begin to develop and can be transferred to larger containers for further growth.
Disease and Pest Management for Buellia elizae (Tuck.) Tuck.
Buellia elizae (Tuck.) Tuck. is a lichenized fungus commonly found on rocks and trees. This plant is not immune to diseases and pests, which can hinder its growth and development. To optimize the plant's growth, it is necessary to take measures that prevent the occurrence of diseases and pests.
Common plant diseases
A common disease that affects Buellia elizae is lichen mortality, which is a result of environmental changes and the impact of human activities. Lichen mortality can lead to the discoloration of the plant and ultimately cause death. To manage this disease, it is advisable to avoid environmental pollution, limit the impact of industrial activities, and provide adequate shade. Another common disease is lichen dermatitis, caused by exposure to certain chemicals and irritation. To manage this disease, it is important to avoid contact with irritants and wear protective clothing when handling the plant.
Common plant pests
The most common pest that affects Buellia elizae is the lichen moth. The larvae of the moth consume the lichen, leading to reduced growth and development of the plant. To manage this pest, it is important to apply insecticides and other control measures regularly. Another common pest is the lichen scale insect, which feeds on the lichen and causes discoloration and death. To manage this pest, it is advisable to remove the infested areas or use insecticides to eliminate the scale insects.
Preventive measures
To prevent diseases and pests in Buellia elizae, it is essential to maintain good plant hygiene. This includes regular removal of dead and infected plant parts and avoiding overcrowding of plants. In addition, it is important to promote proper ventilation and humidity, as these create the right conditions for plant growth and minimize the occurrence of diseases and pests.
In conclusion, Buellia elizae can be susceptible to diseases and pests, but with proper management, these can be prevented and minimized. By following the preventive measures and prompt control of pests and diseases, the plant can thrive and reach its full potential.
