Overview:
Buellia ocellata is a species of crustose lichen that belongs to the family Caliciaceae. It was originally named as Lecidea ocellata by Flotow in 1849 and later classified under the genus Buellia by Korber in 1855. It is commonly found growing on a variety of substrates including rocks and bark of trees.
Common Names:
Buellia ocellata is commonly known as the "Eyed Buellia Lichen" due to the numerous black dots that appear on its surface, resembling eyes.
Appearance:
Buellia ocellata usually grows in small patches measuring up to 2 cm in diameter. The thallus of this lichen is crustose and continuous, with a smooth and glossy surface that is usually grayish-white or pale yellow in color. The most distinguishing feature of this lichen is the small black apothecia that are scattered uniformly across the thallus surface, giving it the appearance of having eyes. The apothecia measure 0.5-1.5 mm in diameter and have a flat, disk-like shape.
Uses:
Buellia ocellata does not have any significant economic or medicinal uses. However, like other lichens, it plays an important role in the ecosystem as a pioneer species in the colonization of barren or disturbed habitats. It also serves as a food source for certain herbivores such as reindeer and caribou.
Growth Conditions of Buellia ocellata (Flotow) Korber
Buellia ocellata is a lichenized fungi that grows on rocks, stones, and bark of trees in various habitats including forests, coastal areas, and other similar locations. The following sections discuss the ideal growth conditions for this species.
Light Requirements
The growth of Buellia ocellata is influenced by light intensity. It grows best in moderate light conditions with partial to full shade. In the wild, it can be found growing under the shade of trees. Exposure to direct sunlight for an extended period can cause damage to the lichen and may even result in death.
Temperature Requirements
Buellia ocellata thrives in moderate to cool temperatures. The optimal temperature range for growth is between 10 to 25 degrees Celsius. The lichen can tolerate low temperatures of up to -7°C but doesn't grow well under high temperature and arid conditions.
Soil Requirements
Buellia ocellata doesn't require soil to grow as it is commonly found growing on rocks and tree bark. However, the source of nutrients essential for its growth is mainly from the air and rainwater. Therefore, an unpolluted environment that provides adequate air circulation and good water quality is sufficient for the growth of this species.
Conclusion
The growth of Buellia ocellata is dependent on several environmental factors such as light, temperature, and air quality. Hence, the species is considered an indicator of good air quality due to its sensitivity to air pollution. To successfully grow Buellia ocellata, it is crucial to provide the appropriate environmental conditions, such as moderate light, cool temperatures, and a suitable habitat that contributes to good air quality.
Cultivation Methods for Buellia ocellata
Buellia ocellata is a crustose lichen that is commonly found growing on trees, rocks, and soil. Cultivating this species is relatively easy as it can grow in a wide range of environments.
The first step in cultivating Buellia ocellata is to identify a suitable growing location that provides the right combination of light, moisture, and temperature. This species prefers to grow in areas with moderate to high levels of humidity and partial shade.
Once you have identified a suitable location, you can then prepare the planting site by clearing away any debris or other obstacles that might impede growth. It is also important to ensure that the soil is well-draining and nutrient-rich.
Watering Needs for Buellia ocellata
Buellia ocellata requires moderate moisture levels to grow, so it is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the lichen.
To maintain the proper moisture level, water the lichen regularly but allow the soil to dry out between waterings. This will ensure that the lichen receives enough water to thrive without drowning the roots.
Fertilization for Buellia ocellata
Buellia ocellata does not require fertilization as it obtains all of its nutrients from its environment. In some cases, adding a small amount of organic fertilizer may be beneficial, but it is not necessary for healthy growth.
If you do decide to fertilize, it is important to use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer that will not provide too much nitrogen. Nitrogen can cause the lichen to grow too quickly and become more susceptible to disease and pests.
Pruning for Buellia ocellata
Pruning is not typically necessary for Buellia ocellata, as this lichen does not have traditional leaves or stems that require trimming.
In some cases, you may need to remove dead or diseased portions of the lichen to prevent the spread of infection. Use a sterile blade or pair of scissors to carefully cut away any affected areas, and dispose of them in a trash bag or compost bin to prevent further contamination.
Propagation of Buellia ocellata
Buellia ocellata, commonly referred to as Flotow's disk lichen, is a hardy lichen known for its robust growth rate. The plant reproduces both sexually and asexually to propagate.
Sexual propagation
During sexual reproduction, Buellia ocellata produces small, disk-shaped apothecia that contain ascospores. The apothecia are usually black, and they appear scattered over the thallus surface. The ascospores are dispersed by the wind and can germinate on suitable substrates. The spores then grow into new lichen thalli.
Asexual propagation
Asexually, Buellia ocellata reproduces by means of soredia. Soredia are small, finely powdered vegetative propagules consisting of both algal and fungal cells. They form at the tips of the lichen thallus and can be dispersed by the wind or other means. When the soredia reach a suitable substrate, they can establish new lichen thalli.
To propagate Buellia ocellata, one can either use the sexual or asexual method. Depending on the intended use, sexual propagation is done by collecting the mature apothecia. Asexual propagation, on the other hand, is achieved by collecting the soredia from the thallus' apex and spreading them to a suitable substrate.
Disease Management for Buellia ocellata
Buellia ocellata is generally disease resistant, but it can still be affected by several fungal diseases, which includes:
- Anthracnose: This disease is identified by the appearance of small, sunken spots on leaves and stems. To manage this disease, remove and destroy all infected plant tissue, practice good sanitation, and avoid overhead watering.
- Root rot: This is caused by over-watering or poor drainage. To manage this disease, ensure that the plant is not over-watered, and improve the drainage of soil. Fungicides can also be applied.
- Leaf spot: This disease appears as small, dark spots on the leaves of the plant. Remove and destroy all infected plant parts, control the humidity around the plant, and avoid overhead watering.
Pest Management for Buellia ocellata
Buellia ocellata is susceptible to pests such as spider mites, aphids, and scale insects. Here are some of the ways to manage these pests:
- Spider mites: These pests might be visible via the presence of webbing on the plants. Keep the plant humidity above 50% and spray them with water. Insecticides can also be applied but ensure that you follow the instructions correctly.
- Aphids: This pest is usually found underneath the leaves of the plant. You can control aphids by spraying the plants with a strong stream of water, using insecticidal soaps, or neem oil.
- Scale insects: These pests appear as small, round bumps on the plant's stems and leaves. Remove the insects using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Pruning and applying horticultural oils can also be effective.
