Origin
Buellia melanochroa (Krempelh.) Mull. Arg. is a type of lichen. It belongs to the family Caliciaceae and can be found all over the world, mostly in areas with moderate to high humidity levels.
Common Names
Some of the common names of Buellia melanochroa include black-dot Buellia, Buellia with a black ring, and melanochroic Buellia.
Appearance
Buellia melanochroa has a blackish-brown, smooth, thin crustose thallus that grows up to 1 mm thick. It usually has a lot of small, black, round, raised apothecia, which can have a thin black margin. The spores of this lichen are usually muriform and measure around 11–16 x 5.5–9 µm. The lichen grows in small patches or scattered.
Uses
Buellia melanochroa does not have any significant commercial value. However, it has been used as a bioindicator of atmospheric pollution because of its sensitivity to pollutants such as sulfur dioxide. Additionally, lichens like Buellia melanochroa have been used as traditional medicine for treating coughs, lung problems, and other respiratory ailments in some parts of the world where it is found.
Light Requirements
Buellia melanochroa requires moderate to bright indirect light for optimal growth. It cannot tolerate direct sunlight, as it may scorch the leaves and damage the plant. It is best to place the plant near a window that receives bright, but filtered light or under artificial grow lights if natural light is insufficient.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires a relatively stable temperature range between 18-23°C (64-73°F). It cannot tolerate extreme fluctuations in temperature, particularly cold temperatures, which can adversely affect the growth of the plant. Therefore, it is recommended to keep the plant away from doors, windows, and drafty areas that may cause sudden temperature changes in the environment.
Soil Requirements
Buellia melanochroa grows best in well-draining soil that is mildly acidic. The soil should be porous and able to retain moisture without becoming waterlogged, as this can cause root rot, and the plant may eventually die. Mixing peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite in equal parts provides an excellent growing medium for this type of plant. Additionally, regular fertilization with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer is necessary to provide the plant with adequate nutrients.
Cultivation
Buellia melanochroa thrives in locations with moist, humid conditions. The plant requires moderately fertile, well-drained soil with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5. The ideal location to grow the plant is in shaded areas with indirect sunlight.
The plant can grow in different types of soil, including rocky, sandy, or loamy soils. However, it is essential to amend the soil with organic matter and loosen the soil to improve drainage. The plant is cold-hardy and can tolerate temperatures as low as -4°F (-20°C).
Watering Needs
Buellia melanochroa does not require frequent watering, especially when grown in the shade. However, it is vital to water the plant deeply during dry spells to prevent the soil from drying out. Watering should be done early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation.
It is essential to avoid overwatering the plant, as it can cause root rot and other fungal diseases. The plant can be watered once a week during the growing season. However, if the soil feels moist, do not water the plant.
Fertilization
Buellia melanochroa does not require heavy fertilization. However, it helps to feed the plant with balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Fertilization should be done once a month, using either granular or liquid fertilizer.
The fertilizer should be applied at the base of the plant and watered immediately to prevent the leaves from burning. It is essential to avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as it can cause leaf scorch and other issues.
Pruning
Buellia melanochroa does not require heavy pruning. However, it helps to prune the plant to maintain its shape and reduce its size. Pruning should be done during the dormant season, preferably in late winter or early spring.
The plant can be pruned to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches. It is essential to use clean, sharp pruning shears to prevent the spread of diseases. After pruning, it helps to apply a thin layer of mulch around the base of the plant to conserve soil moisture and suppress weed growth.
Propagation of Buellia melanochroa
Buellia melanochroa is a crustose lichen that can be propagated through vegetative, asexual or sexual means.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation of B. melanochroa can be achieved through fragmentation. This method involves breaking off a part of the lichen and attaching it to a suitable substrate. The fragment will establish itself and eventually grow into a new individual with all the same characteristics of the parent plant. This method is particularly useful for growing clonal populations of the lichen.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of B. melanochroa can be achieved through soredia. Soredia are small, asexual propagules that are produced on the surface of the lichen thallus. They are dispersed by wind or water and can grow into new individuals when they land on a suitable substrate. Soredia contain both fungal and algal cells, and therefore can establish a new symbiotic relationship. This method is useful for colonizing new areas or for restoration projects.
Sexual Propagation
B. melanochroa can also reproduce sexually through the production of spores. Spores are produced in the apothecia, which are the fruiting bodies of the lichen. The spores are released into the environment and can germinate to form new individuals when they land on a suitable substrate. Sexual propagation is important for generating genetic diversity within the population, which can increase the chances of survival in changing environmental conditions.
While sexual propagation is possible, it can be difficult as the conditions for apothecia development and spore release are specific. Therefore, this method is not commonly used for propagation purposes.
Disease Management
Buellia melanochroa is highly susceptible to several diseases, including anthracnose, leaf spot, and root rot. These diseases are caused by different pathogens, including fungi, bacteria, and viruses.
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that leads to the development of dark, sunken lesions on the leaves, stems, and berries. The disease is prevalent in wet and humid conditions. To manage anthracnose, it is essential to practice proper sanitation and hygiene in the garden. You can also use fungicides to control the disease.
Leaf spot is another fungal disease that causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves. The disease can quickly spread to the other parts of the plant, causing significant damage. To control leaf spot, it is crucial to remove infected plant parts and provide the plants with adequate airflow and sunlight. You can also apply fungicides to control the spread of the disease.
Root rot is a bacterial or fungal disease that leads to the rotting of the roots, leading to poor plant growth and development. To prevent root rot, it is essential to plant Buellia melanochroa in well-drained soil. You can also use fungicides to control the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Buellia melanochroa is also prone to pest attacks. The common pests that can affect the plant include spider mites, aphids, and scale insects.
Spider mites can cause the leaves to turn yellow and curl up. The pests suck sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth and development. To control spider mites, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also increase the humidity levels in the garden to deter the pests.
Aphids can cause the leaves to curl up and turn yellow. They also produce honeydew, which attracts ants and other insects. To control aphids, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also encourage the growth of natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings.
Scale insects can cause the leaves to yellow and fall off. They produce a sticky substance called honeydew, which attracts other insects. To control scale insects, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also remove the pests manually using a soft brush and soapy water.
